A cannabis vape cartridge sold in Ontario has been pulled from the market after tests revealed it contained more than double the THC potency listed on its label.
Culture Kizos Inc. has recalled its Coterie brand Prickly Pear Liquid Diamonds 510 Thread Cartridge following a labelling error that significantly understated the product’s THC concentration. The Ontario Cannabis Store (OCS) issued the recall notice on October 23.
According to Health Canada, the affected lot — identified as L25253I with UPC 00628693377959 — was labelled with a THC value of 402.26 mg/g. However, the true potency was found to be 936.21 mg/g, more than twice the declared level. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the psychoactive compound in cannabis responsible for producing a “high.”
The recalled product was available through the OCS — Ontario’s sole online retailer and wholesaler of legal recreational cannabis — as well as other licensed retailers. No image of the recalled item was posted on the OCS recall page.
Health Canada warns that inconsistencies or elevated levels of THC can make it difficult for consumers to gauge safe consumption levels, potentially leading to over-intoxication or adverse health effects. Reported symptoms of THC overdose may include confusion, anxiety, panic, disorganized thinking, impaired coordination, and elevated heart rate. In severe cases, high doses can trigger psychotic episodes involving paranoia, delusions, or hallucinations, sometimes requiring hospital treatment.
This is the latest in a string of cannabis recalls in Ontario. Earlier this month, Coterie Double-Infused Fruity Pebbles Blunts were withdrawn due to possible mould contamination, and Sensi Brands Ltd. recalled its Potluck Hot Cinnamon Chillows and Winter Mint Chillows products over excessive THC concentration variability.
Consumers who have purchased the recalled Coterie vape cartridge are advised to stop using it immediately and report any health or safety incidents through Health Canada’s online cannabis reporting form. Additional recall notices can be found on the Health Canada and Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) websites.