‘Dangerous’ levels of mold, yeast, lead, E.coli and salmonella have been found in UK street cannabis.
Researchers from Manchester Metropolitan University, in conjunction with Curaleaf Clinic, analyzed 60 samples seized by police in Greater Manchester and Northumbria.
And 90 percent of what was tested was contaminated with either mould and yeast, eight percent with lead, and two percent with salmonella and E.coli.
Health experts warn it could lead to respiratory issues, neurological damage, and gastrointestinal infections in users.
Further independent testing also detected highly unsafe synthetic cannabinoids, including Spice and K2, in 27 percent of samples.
The results were revealed after a study of 500 users of the drug commissioned by medical cannabis clinic, Curaleaf Clinic, found 58 percent of illegal cannabis is bought by those trying to manage medical conditions.
These include anxiety (49 percent), depression (49 percent) and chronic pain (28 percent).
More than one in 10 (11 percent) have used the dark web, online retailers, and even QR code stickers left by dealers to obtain the substance.
Meanwhile, a separate study of 2,000 adults, found just 46 percent are aware medical cannabis is legal and available on specialist prescription.
Dr Simon Erridge, research director at the clinic, said: “It is crucial for consumers to be aware of the hidden dangers in illegal cannabis, especially as so many people are buying it to manage health issues which could be exacerbated by these hazardous substances.
“The law changed six years ago so there is a legal, regulated and quality-tested alternative for those suffering with diagnosed chronic illnesses which haven’t responded to conventional therapies.
“Many people are putting themselves at risk, when they don’t need to.”
Despite the risks, 18 percent of illegal cannabis users are unaware the products they purchase may contain dangerous contaminants.
And 66 percent are unable to recognize mold-contaminated cannabis.
To raise awareness of the dangers of illegally sourced cannabis, Curaleaf has launched a public health campaign, What Are You Smoking?, aimed at engaging those most at risk.
Billboards revealing the results of the study have been taken out in known drug dealing hotspots based on data obtained via a Freedom of Information (FOI) request.
So far, an ‘ad van’ featuring the billboards has driven to locations in Tower Hamlets and Lambeth in London, and will also be making its way to Manchester Piccadilly and Merseyside.
Mirroring tactics used by street dealers, biodegradable QR code stickers directing people to vital information on the dangers of unregulated cannabis are also being placed in the hotspots.
