Contaminated Cannabis Prompts Recall in Arizona Dispensaries

25 October 2025

Arizona’s Department of Health Services has announced a voluntary recall of two marijuana flower products due to possible contamination with aspergillus and lead. The recall includes Elba Holdings’ Scrooge strain, batch 250310S-100, and Saints Bruce Banner from Green Medicine, batch F11BC241209.

Officials said no illnesses have been reported, but the move is being made out of caution. The potential contamination was identified through lab testing, which led producers and distributors to pull the affected batches from retail shelves.

Aspergillus is a common fungus that can trigger allergic reactions or infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems or chronic illness. Lead, a naturally occurring heavy metal, can cause fatigue, stomach pain, and neurological problems if exposure levels are high.

Consumers who purchased these products are advised not to use them in any form and to dispose of them safely. Those who experience symptoms that may suggest aspergillus infection or lead exposure should contact a healthcare provider.

The Arizona Department of Health Services said the recall followed established safety procedures. Testing rules for cannabis products are defined under 9 A.A.C. 17 and 9 A.A.C. 18, which apply to both AZ medical cannabis and adult-use programs.

Arizona has faced several cannabis recalls in 2023 and 2024, while other states have reported contamination cases involving pesticides, salmonella, and aspergillus. The latest recall stresses the continued challenges for producers in maintaining consistent product safety within a fast-growing market.