White paper highlights urgent need for cannabis safety and education reform

A new white paper from Natalie Brown, Director of Operations at EKG Labs, outlines the urgent need for better public education, safety standards and regulatory improvements in the rapidly growing cannabis market. The report, released last month, addresses the challenges facing both consumers and the industry as cannabis products for medical and adult use become more widely available.

Titled “Cannabis Safety and Responsible Consumption: A Public Guide” The White Paper highlights significant concerns about cannabis labeling, transparency and the responsibility of manufacturers to provide clear, detailed product information. As the cannabis market continues to grow, the need for accurate potency data, cannabinoid levels and clear indications of possible effects has become a pressing issue, the report said.

Brown's analysis highlights a gap in standardized product labeling and the lack of consumer-friendly guidelines for safe consumption practices. The paper urges industry players and regulators to adopt more consistent labeling protocols and clearer education on dosage, consumption methods and the potential risks associated with different product types such as edibles, concentrates and inhalants.

Another focus of the report is preventing overconsumption and accidental ingestion, particularly among vulnerable populations, including children and pets. Brown is calling for improved packaging standards, including child-resistant designs and more prominent warnings. The report recommends that manufacturers and retailers take a proactive approach to consumer education to ensure cannabis consumers understand how to properly store their products and reduce the risk of accidental exposure.

The White Paper also highlights the need to weigh the benefits and risks of cannabis use through informed public discourse. She advocates for educational initiatives that aim to reduce the stigma associated with cannabis while promoting a realistic understanding of its therapeutic and recreational use. By eliminating common misconceptions and providing science-based information, Brown said the industry can foster a safer and more knowledgeable consumer base.

The report was published as part of the Know Your Cannabis campaign, which actively promotes cannabis safety and responsible consumption. The campaign supports the recommendations set out in the White Paper as part of its wider mission to close knowledge gaps and improve public awareness. The full report is available to download here and is a resource for consumers and industry stakeholders alike.