Author: Matthew Ma

Vietnam has implemented a strict ban on vapes, joining a growing list of countries, including Singapore, Thailand, India, and Australia, that prohibit travelers from bringing e-cigarettes into the country. The new rules, which came into effect at the start of the year, aim to address health concerns over irreversible lung damage caused by vaping. Tourists caught using e-cigarettes in Vietnam now face fines of up to 2 million dong (US$78.50), while those found importing, trading, transporting, or producing vapes and materials for cigarette alternatives risk fines of up to 3 billion dong or imprisonment for up to 15 years, depending…

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Louisiana is set to implement a new law on January 1, 2025, that will significantly impact the state's thriving hemp industry. The legislation, known as Act 752, was passed during the 2024 regular legislative session as a compromise between lawmakers who have been debating how to regulate the $33 million industry for years. The new rules will bring about several notable changes that will affect consumers of THC and CBD products, as well as the businesses that sell them. Here's a closer look at what will change in 2025: Reduced Serving Sizes for THC Seltzers and Gummies One of the…

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Belgium will become the first European Union (EU) country to ban the sale of disposable vapes starting January 1, 2025. Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke announced this decision, citing both health and environmental concerns as the primary reasons for the ban. Vandenbroucke emphasized that disposable e-cigarettes, which often contain nicotine, have become a significant health threat, particularly among teenagers. These devices make it easier for young people to become addicted to nicotine. Additionally, the disposable nature of these products contributes to plastic waste, hazardous chemicals, and battery pollution. While the ban specifically targets disposable vapes, Vandenbroucke acknowledged that reusable vapes could…

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The UK government has announced that the sale and use of single-use disposable vapes will be banned in England starting from June 2025. The move aims to protect children's health and the environment, with similar bans expected to be introduced by the governments in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Concerns Over Disposable Vapes' Appeal to Children Despite the existing law that prohibits the sale of vapes to individuals under the age of 18, there have been growing concerns that disposable vapes contribute significantly to the rise in young people vaping. These devices are often sold in smaller, more colorful packaging…

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The California Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) has announced voluntary recalls for vape cartridge products from two cannabis manufacturers, STIIIZY and Kind Republic, due to potential pesticide contamination. The recall notices, issued on December 6 and December 4, respectively, join several other ongoing cannabis recalls related to pesticide contamination in the state. STIIIZY Premium THC Pods Recall Details The voluntary recall affects the following STIIIZY vape products for potential pesticide category I contamination: Ironworks Collective manufactured the products, with the Purple Punch products sold in October 2021 and the Pink Acai products sold in October 2023. Kind Republic Recall Details…

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Louisiana lawmakers have given final approval to House Bill 952, which introduces new regulations on the state's thriving $33 million hemp-derived THC product industry. The bill, carried by Rep. Dustin Miller (D-Opelousas), was sent to Gov. Jeff Landry's desk on Monday, just 40 minutes before the Legislature's 6 p.m. deadline, after the House and Senate worked to resolve differences over the included regulations. The new law, set to take effect on January 1, 2025, comes after a failed attempt to ban hemp-derived THC products in Louisiana last week. Once signed by Gov. Landry, the regulations will bring about significant changes…

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In the rapidly evolving field of cannabis research, Laura Stewart, Ph.D., a professor at the University of Northern Colorado, has made significant strides in understanding the relationship between cannabidiol (CBD) and immune function. With a background in exploring the impact of exercise on the immune system, Stewart shifted her focus to CBD research in 2014, coinciding with Colorado's legalization of recreational marijuana use. Bridging the Gap Between Perception and Science Stewart's research highlights a significant discrepancy between public perception and scientific evidence regarding the health benefits of cannabis and CBD. While companies selling cannabis-related products should support their claims with…

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In recent years, the cannabis industry has seen the emergence of a new compound called Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol, or Delta-8 THC for short. This substance, while similar to the more well-known Delta-9 THC found in marijuana, has distinct properties and legal considerations that consumers should be aware of. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the key facts about Delta-8 THC, its effects, the current regulatory landscape, and important safety considerations for those who may encounter these products. What is Delta-8 THC? Delta-8 THC is a psychoactive substance naturally occurring in cannabis plants, including both marijuana and hemp varieties. However,…

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