EXCLUSIVE: Drug Expert Dr. Carl Hart Slams Cannabis Prohibition Amid Hemp-THC Surge
The rise of hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta-8 THC is reshaping the cannabis landscape in the U.S. Touted as legal alternatives to Delta-9 THC, these products have surged in popularity, particularly in states where recreational cannabis remains prohibited.
The unregulated nature and potential health risks of these products have ignited fierce debates among policymakers and industry stakeholders. In an exclusive interview with Benzinga, Dr. Carl L. Hart, a renowned neuroscientist, author and the Ziff professor of psychology at Columbia University, offered a stark critique of the current regulatory framework.
The Multi-Billion Consequence Of A Legal Loophole
Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, remains federally illegal, though several states have legalized it.
This regulatory gray area was further complicated by the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp and its derivatives, provided they contain less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight. This created a loophole that allowed hemp-derived cannabinoids to flourish, offering effects similar to marijuana but sidestepping federal regulation.
As a result, products like hemp-THC gummies, beverages and vape cartridges have surged in popularity, often marketed as legal alternatives to cannabis. Delta-8 THC products alone generated an estimated $1.2 billion in sales in 2023, according to Cannabis Business Times.
However, despite the growth of the hemp-derived market, major cannabis companies like Curaleaf Holdings (OTC:CURLF), Canopy Growth (NASDAQ:CGC) and Tilray Brands (NASDAQ:TLRY) are expanding into this space, Hart sees it as indicative of confusion rather than progress.
The core issue, according to Hart, is the unregulated production of these cannabinoids. Since many hemp-derived cannabinoids …