How To Identify Fake THC Carts (THC & Delta 8)
In the cannabis and vaping communities, there have been numerous unsettling accounts of vape cartridge mishaps. These tales typically follow a pattern: an unsuspecting individual purchases a cheap cart from an untrustworthy supplier, only to experience severe health consequences. Often, these adverse effects manifest as lung damage, a specific type of acute respiratory distress syndrome that the CDC has mislabeled as “e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury” (EVALI).
It is crucial to remain vigilant about the substances you inhale while vaping. Counterfeit THC and delta 8 cartridges can pose serious risks, albeit infrequently. Unethical manufacturers sometimes employ cost-cutting measures that involve incorporating potentially lethal additives like vitamin E acetate, which has been identified as the primary cause of lung injuries associated with EVALI.
Understanding how to discern between a counterfeit or subpar THC cartridge and a genuine one is of utmost importance. In today’s thriving cannabis market, there exists a multitude of unscrupulous vendors who compromise product quality to reduce expenses, some even disregarding the health and well-being of their customers. Here are some key indicators to help you differentiate between authentic and dubious products.
Signs That Show If Your Cart Laced Or Contaminated
You may be curious about the actual harm caused by using counterfeit vape cartridges, beyond just an unsatisfactory high. When you inhale chemicals that haven’t been approved for vaping purposes, there is no guarantee of safety. It becomes a significant gamble with each puff you take.
The potential health risks associated with using fake cartridges include:
-Respiratory damage, including the risk of developing “EVALI.”
-Coughing, shortness of breath, and irritation of the airways
-Vomiting and nausea
-Fatigue and weakness
-Chest pain
In addition to the potential health hazards, the quality, materials, and construction of your vape cartridge are also crucial factors to consider. Black market cartridges are more prone to leakage or overheating, which can lead to burns or injuries.
Unless you personally conduct chemical testing to ensure that your cartridge doesn’t contain harmful substances, the most reliable indicator of a high-quality product is its source. Avoid purchasing from dubious street sources or vendors who are unwilling to provide detailed testing information.
How To Tell If Your Cart Is Fake
Being aware of the red flags can be instrumental in safeguarding THC and delta 8 vape cartridge users from harmful ingredients, often even before the product is consumed. By recognizing these warning signs, individuals can take proactive measures to protect their health and well-being.
It is essential to check if the vape cart has been tested and approved. While regulations may differ from state to state, there is certain information that you can expect to find on the packaging of regulated cannabis products. Fake delta 9 THC carts often lack crucial production details, such as manufacturing and packing dates, license numbers, and batch/lot numbers.
Another useful tactic is to look for a QR code on the cart packaging. Scanning this code can provide valuable information about whether the product has undergone thorough testing and received approval. Additionally, pay attention to the serial number printed near the QR code. If the serial number does not match the one listed on the brand’s official website, it is advisable to discard the product as it is likely a fake cartridge.
In states where cannabis is regulated, sellers are obligated to share lab results with the public. If a vape cartridge is deemed safe for use, finding this information online should not be a challenging task. This process becomes even easier if you have access to the product’s license number.
For hemp-derived cannabinoid products like delta 8 THC or HHC, many states lack similar regulations. However, responsible manufacturers and retailers often provide similar safeguards. Look for websites that openly publish testing results and provide comprehensive information about the ingredients present in the cartridge. If a manufacturer or retailer refuses to share detailed information about their products, it is advisable to avoid purchasing from them.
Fake Cartridge Packaging Design
Recognizing trends in fake vape cartridge packaging design can serve as an early warning sign. Black market sellers often purchase pre-made packaging from Chinese suppliers, which are not associated with legitimate cartridge brands.
If you come across packaging covered with popular cartoon characters or other images that are likely trademarked or copyrighted, it is highly likely to be a fake cannabis product. Reputable cartridge brands generally avoid using your favorite childhood cartoon or video game characters extensively on their packaging.
Legitimate cartridge vendors tend to update their packaging designs periodically. If you come across the exact same packaging you saw years ago, it could also indicate a potential red flag.
While it is impossible to list every fake cartridge “brand” on the market, it’s worth highlighting a few commonly encountered ones. These packages always contain black-market THC oil and have been associated with severe lung injuries:
-Dank Vapes
-Exotic Carts
-Cereal Carts
-Chronic Carts
-West Coast Carts
It’s important to exercise caution and avoid purchasing products associated with these brands, as they are known for their association with black-market THC oil and potential health risks.
Beware The Knockoffs
Identifying counterfeit brands can sometimes be challenging, particularly when it comes to well-known delta 9 brands. Instead of creating their own knockoff brands, fake cartridge sellers may resort to stealing branding from reputable manufacturers and selling counterfeit products.
To verify the authenticity of a brand, you can visit the manufacturer’s website and look for images of their current packaging. Many fake brands fail to accurately imitate or keep up with the latest packaging designs. Additionally, the package should include the manufacturer’s state license number, and you can research the lot and batch numbers on the company’s website for further confirmation.
One effective way to avoid this problem is by purchasing regulated delta 9 products solely from state-licensed dispensaries. If you come across these products on the street, they are likely to be counterfeit. Delta 8 and other hemp-derived products are primarily sold directly by the manufacturer or through approved retailers. It is advisable to check with the manufacturer before making a purchase from any source that you do not fully trust.
By exercising caution and verifying the legitimacy of the brand, you can significantly reduce the risk of purchasing fake or counterfeit vape cartridges.
THC Cart Quality
After opening the box, there are additional observations you can make to assess the quality of a vape cartridge:
Give the cartridge a gentle swish and observe the consistency of the liquid. High-quality cannabis oil should have a viscous texture without an excessive number of air bubbles. Dip the cart downwards and observe how the bubbles move. If they rapidly rush from one side to another, it indicates that the liquid is thin or of low quality. In either case, it is best to avoid consuming it.
Please note: Cannabis oil adulterated with vitamin E acetate can resemble pure cannabis oil in appearance and behavior. The suggestions mentioned above are effective in detecting other additives but may not reliably exclude the possibility of adulteration with vitamin E acetate.
Pay attention to the flavor and aftertaste. A vape cartridge containing quality oil and made with precision should not produce an unpleasant or burnt taste. If you experience an off-flavor or peculiar aftertaste, it could indicate a faulty cartridge. This is unlikely to happen with a well-made cartridge using high-quality oil, as long as it is vaped at the correct voltage.
By considering the liquid consistency, observing bubble movement, and evaluating the flavor, you can gather further insights into the quality and integrity of the vape cartridge.
Pay Attention To The Prices
Indeed, the adage “If something seems too good to be true, it probably is” holds true when it comes to vape cartridges. If you come across a vape cart being sold at a significantly lower price by one seller compared to others in the same area, there is a higher likelihood that it might be a counterfeit product.
As emphasized earlier, it is crucial to purchase vape carts from trusted sources. Legitimate delta 9 carts are exclusively sold in state-regulated dispensaries. For hemp-derived products like delta 8 THC carts, the most reliable source is directly from the manufacturer.
By adhering to these guidelines and being cautious about unusually low prices or suspicious sources, you can minimize the risk of purchasing counterfeit or substandard vape cartridges. Prioritizing trusted and regulated channels ensures your safety and the quality of the products you choose to consume.
Can You Identify Fake Carts By The Color?
The color of THC, CBD, and delta 8 oils typically ranges from light pink, straw, amber, to gold, and in some cases, they can be completely clear. The color may vary depending on factors such as the presence of plant material (as in live resin carts), the addition of terpenes, and the extraction process.
During usage, the oxygen drawn into the extract from vaping can cause it to oxidize and darken naturally. Exposure to heat and light can also contribute to the darkening of cannabis oil over time. However, a brand new vape cart should never have a dark brown or black color, as it may indicate poor production or storage practices.
It is important to note that the color alone is not a definitive indicator of a fake vape cartridge. However, if a new cartridge contains dark brown, black, or hazy oil, or if you notice visible solid materials floating in it, it could suggest contamination or old age. In such cases, it is best to avoid using the cartridge, regardless of whether it is fake or genuine.
While color can provide some insight into the quality and condition of a vape cartridge, it is advisable to consider it in conjunction with other factors such as source, packaging, testing, and overall product quality to make an informed decision.
What Is The High Like From A Fake Cart?
The effects provided by fake THC or delta 8 carts can sometimes be a giveaway of their authenticity. When the goal is to reduce costs, the additives and cannabis substitutes used in fake carts are not selected based on quality.
Cannabis oil cartridges are potent, typically containing 3-10 times more THC per puff than smoking a joint or using a pipe. Therefore, if you don’t experience an immediate high from a delta 9 cart, it should raise suspicions.
The high from a fake cartridge can vary from person to person. Some users have reported headaches or an overall experience of a “dirty high.” However, the most common effect is a weak high, which occurs when the manufacturer dilutes the THC with other substances to save money.
If you are familiar with how your body typically responds to cannabis and something feels off or different, it is essential to trust your instincts. It could be an indication of a “laced” cartridge, potentially containing substances like spice, a harmful substance made with potent synthetic cannabinoids known for its negative side effects.
It is crucial to prioritize your safety and well-being by being cautious and attentive to any unusual effects or experiences when using vape cartridges. If you suspect that a cartridge may be fake, it is advisable to discontinue its use and seek products from trusted and reputable sources.
What Do Fake Carts Taste Like?
A vape cartridge that exhibits a metallic or burned taste can be indicative of substandard materials or poor construction, often associated with low-quality or potentially counterfeit products.
Legitimate unflavored vape cartridges should provide a smooth and mostly tasteless experience when used, while flavored cartridges should offer flavors that correspond to the listed flavor profiles. If the vaporization process produces unwanted or off-putting flavors, it suggests the presence of ingredients that should not be part of the cartridge’s formulation.
In many vape cartridges, processed cannabis oil is blended with terpenes to enhance the flavor. However, in lower-priced cartridges, manufacturers may use non-cannabis terpene sources, which can result in weird or unnatural flavors. While this doesn’t necessarily mean they are fake, it does indicate a less desirable quality.
When using vape cartridges, it is important to prioritize a clean and pleasant flavor profile that aligns with the listed ingredients. If a cartridge consistently produces unpleasant tastes or flavors that seem unnatural, it is advisable to exercise caution and consider seeking products from trusted sources that prioritize quality and transparency.
Does The Cart Contain Vitamin E Acetate?
In 2019, there was a notable outbreak of lung injuries associated with illicit THC cartridges, resulting in the deaths of 68 individuals and hospitalizing nearly 3,000 others. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) initially attributed the outbreak to nicotine vaping and termed it “e-cigarette, or vaping, product use-associated lung injury” (EVALI), the actual cause was later determined to be vitamin E acetate present in black market THC cartridges.
Illicit cannabis processors and sellers discovered that THC oil diluted with vitamin E acetate closely resembled pure THC oil in a cartridge, allowing them to save money by mixing their cannabis oil with vitamin E-containing products. Vitamin E acetate is considered safe when consumed as a supplement or used in topical creams. However, when inhaled through vaping, the clear and tasteless oil can have deadly consequences.
Inhaling vitamin E acetate can lead to a severe form of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), which is characterized by significant and potentially permanent lung damage. Despite the known risks, vitamin E acetate may still be used as a thickening agent in black market THC oil used in fake THC cartridges.
Interestingly, the consistency of the liquid can be a giveaway that it contains vitamin E acetate, contrary to what one might expect from a cheap cartridge. If the liquid appears extremely thick and exhibits minimal or no movement of air bubbles, it could indicate the presence of vitamin E acetate.
To avoid exposure to vitamin E acetate, it is crucial to stick to legitimate and fully tested delta 9 THC products from legal dispensaries, as well as delta 8 cartridges from reputable manufacturers. By following the precautions and guidelines mentioned above, you can mitigate the risk of encountering this dangerous chemical and protect your health and well-being.
Some Known THC Cart Contaminates
Indeed, vitamin E acetate is not the only danger that can be found in counterfeit vape cartridges. Illegitimate brands are not limited to using typical additives, such as terpenes, found in legitimate cartridges.
The production processes associated with black market cartridges can involve questionable growing and processing methods, leading to contamination with unsafe chemicals and byproducts. Potential contaminants that can be found in these cartridges include:
Pesticides: Illicit cartridges may contain pesticides such as myclobutanil, avermectin, bifenazate, and others. These pesticides are not intended for inhalation and can pose health risks when heated and inhaled.
Heavy metals: Poorly made cartridges may contain elevated levels of heavy metals, including lead. Inhaling these metals can have detrimental effects on health, particularly when they are present in high concentrations.
Hydrogen cyanide: Hydrogen cyanide can be produced when the myclobutanil pesticide is heated. Inhaling this poisonous substance can have severe health consequences.
Trusted vape/THC cart manufacturers prioritize testing their products to ensure they do not contain these lung-damaging toxins. This is why it is crucial to source vape cartridges from reputable and regulated manufacturers or dispensaries that adhere to strict quality control standards.
By opting for products from trusted sources and manufacturers, you can significantly reduce the risk of exposure to harmful contaminants and protect your health while enjoying your THC carts.
Are Fake Carts Always Dangerous?
While it’s true that not all black market THC products are necessarily dangerous, the presence of health risks is prevalent enough that the potential savings from purchasing untested cartridges are not worth the potential consequences. The monetary savings pale in comparison to the potential costs of a prolonged hospitalization or long-term health complications.
When you purchase vape cartridges from a trusted and reputable vendor, vaping THC or delta 8 can be a relatively low-risk way to experience the benefits of cannabis. These vendors prioritize product quality, safety, and adhere to regulatory standards. However, when you obtain vape cartridges from a dubious or unreliable dealer, the risks become unpredictable and potentially severe.
It’s important to prioritize your health and well-being by only purchasing vape cartridges from trusted sources. By doing so, you significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering potentially dangerous or substandard products. The peace of mind and the reduction in health risks far outweigh any potential cost savings associated with purchasing from unreliable or sketchy dealers.
Protecting oneself from risky products should be a top priority for cannabis users. Illicit vape cartridge sellers may continue to exploit the growing market, making it crucial for cannabis enthusiasts to remain vigilant and informed about the products they purchase.
Ultimately, it boils down to trust and ensuring the purity and efficacy of the product. If a seller fails to provide sufficient reasons to trust them or lacks transparency regarding the quality and testing of their products, it is wise to seek alternatives. With a wide range of options available, there is no longer any need to waste time and risk your well-being with shady sellers.
Play It Safe
To safeguard yourself and enhance your overall experience, it is advisable to turn to trusted online vendors and reputable dispensaries for vape cartridges and other cannabis products. These sources prioritize quality, safety, and customer satisfaction, offering reliable and tested products that can provide a better and safer high.
By being discerning and selective in your purchasing decisions, you can protect yourself, enjoy a more enjoyable cannabis experience, and support legitimate businesses within the cannabis industry.
