ASU initiative uses research to help increase cannabis safety

OG article by Nikhil Mohta

January 30, 2026

Arizona State University's Cannabis Analytics, Safety and Health Initiative expands research to enhance cannabis safety, testing, and public understanding. Directed by Maxwell Leung, it involves multidisciplinary faculty including Thomas Cahill (fungal toxins/pesticides) and Madeline Meier (health outcomes). Key discoveries include Fusarium mycotoxin contaminants in cannabis, previously unreported and unregulated despite toxicity risks. The team tests products for emerging contaminants and advocates targeted regulations for maximum safety impact. Broader efforts examine long-term use links to mental health, cognitive function, and cannabis hyperemesis syndrome using electronic health records to identify at-risk users. Federal restrictions hinder direct cannabis handling without DEA licensing, slowing progress despite state legality. The initiative engages students across fields, hosts public seminars, and plans an independent ASU testing lab plus psilocybin expansion. Long-term goals include informing policymakers, healthcare providers, and consumers to shift from unregulated to safe, sustainable markets through evidence-based leadership. Growing student interest and breakthroughs drive continued growth.