Rapid Analytics LLC was the testing facility at the center of a three-month investigation after allegations of regulatory deviations in its products.
The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) has revoked Rapid Analytics, LLC's license as a medical marijuana testing facility.
“Medical cannabis testing is critical to ensuring product safety for patients, and the disregard for regulatory compliance through rapid analytics poses a threat to public health and welfare. “We have decided to revoke the facility's license effective March 13, 2020,” MSDH said in a press release.
For the past three months, MSDH has been investigating allegations of deviations from regulatory standards and approved procedures for medical marijuana testing at Rapid Analytics. Research reveals that these claims are indeed valid.
The investigation was based on claims that testing of medical cannabis products showed the presence of pesticides and mycotoxins. The investigation ultimately led to the suspension of sales of 70% of medical cannabis products that were scheduled to be released between December 21st and February 9th.
“The Mississippi State Department of Health and the Medical Cannabis Program are committed, first and foremost, to the safety of all patients who participate in our program. This extends to ensuring proper procedures are followed. This was a thorough investigation and a decision not taken lightly,” said Greg Flynn, MSDH's Director of External Affairs.
Initially, Rapid Analytics representatives said the claims of inadequate testing were unfounded. The company has the right to appeal the decision within 20 days.
Rapid Analytics did not respond to requests for comment.
State Sen. Kevin Blackwell (R), a legislative leader in establishing the medical marijuana program, praised MSDH's diligent efforts to ensure safe, high-quality products for patients.
“I think the department has done what we expect it to do, which is protect the public,” said Senator Blackwell.
Sen. Blackwell said that despite the market shutdown and the inconvenience to individuals, the investigation and decision to revoke the license is a positive one given the standards Mississippi has set for medical cannabis businesses. He said he thought so.
“I view this as a positive event, even though unfortunately many products have disappeared from shelves and caused inconvenience to many patients and cannabis facilities,” Blackwell said. “This also sends a message that the Ministry of Health is not playing around. The rules must be followed.”
Sen. Blackwell said this year's bill, which he dubbed the Cannabis Technology Act, would adjust some of the language regarding third-party testing. In 2023, lawmakers authorized MSDH to use third-party laboratories to test other cannabis laboratories to ensure compliance with guidelines. This year's bill requires them to do so. The bill would allow MSDH to select third-party laboratories, but would not allow them to test products as an independent facility.
