Grit weed has been in circulation since approximately 2006, when a handful of local cases were identified. Since this time, the supply of this contaminated weed has increased dramatically, infiltrating all levels of the supply chain throughout the British Isles. Some smokers are even reporting that grit weed is predominantly the only type of herbal cannabis available to them - a situation that many feel is a direct result of the police's recent wave of crackdowns on UK based cannabis growers which has had a marked effect on both the levels and quality of supply.
Currently it seems there are four main types of contaminant being added to the cannabis flooding the UK market. These are:
- Large Glass Particle Contamination
- Industrial Etchant Spray Contamination
- Sugar or Sand Contamination
- Micro Contaminants (stealth grit)
Smokers of grit weed have complained about after effects including, but not limited to; sore mouth, mouth ulcers, chesty persistent coughs, and a tight chest lasting a few days after use.
Luckily, identifying grit weed is relatively easy. At first glance, the cannabis will often appear to be of good standard, even enticing, but will have a very weak odor. On further inspection, it may appear that the cannabis is coated with a layer f THC like crystals, however these could be any of the contaminants listed above, so a more detailed inspection is required.
The most reliable method of testing your cannabis to determine wether or not it is contaminated, is to place a small amount in your mouth and rub it on your teeth and tongue. If you feel a gritty sand like residue when you clench your teeth together then chances are you are dealing with gritweed (probably the silica or road paint contaminant variety). If you don't feel any grit-like substance between your teeth but the weed tastes very sweet (sugary) then chances are it has been dusted with sugar to bulk out the weight.
Please note that the above 'grit test' will not work with the new wave of so called micro comtanimants as these are undetectable without the use of a standard microscope. To date we are unaware of any other method to test for these new forms of micro contaminant gritweeds apart from a detailed microscopic analysis.
Ironically, the Department of Health released a public health warning, but it has vanished from the internet at time of publishing. More information can be found here, but please be aware of the unsupported propaganda also contained in the article.
In conclusion, grit weed is a continuing problem. The only way for smokers to eradicate this evil from the world, is to refuse it. Take pride in the herb you smoke, demand high quality product, and refuse contaminated cannabis. If your dealer slings it your way, just say no. It is worth missing one smoke to save the culture from greedy criminals who take no pride in the positive and beneficial effects of cannabis consumption. Unite. Resist. Reform. Weed before greed.
Until next time
Peace
