While Delta 8 is naturally available in hemp, it is in minimal quantities. As a result, manufacturers produce synthesized Delta 8, derived from CBD. Most of the Delta 8 available on the market today is synthesized.
And this concerns health experts. There is little to no regulation in Delta 8, let alone the synthesized version. Studies have found contaminants in Delta 8 products. The range of contaminants is wide and varied and includes heavy metals such as lead and mercury. Trace amounts of Delta 9 THC have also been found, in some instances, in synthesized Delta 8.
Hence the health advisories. Both the CDC and FDA have issued warnings as to what can happen if a user ingests Delta 8, including everything from hallucinations to vomiting and more. Delta 8 is simply not subject to the same controls as Delta 9 is in the legal cannabis industry, so according to experts, Delta 8 is just not as safe for consumption.
It is all about the regulation – health experts are not advocating for outlawing Delta 8, as users will still find ways to get ahold of it and consume it. But regulation, which also comes with education, is what health experts hope to see in the coming months.
As with all other forms of cannabis consumption, the user should always know what is in their product, and how it will potentially affect them, prior to consuming it.
Sources: New York Times, US Cannabis Council, American Chemical Council, CDC, FDA