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Writer's pictureBob Hickey

New Coalition Unites Wisconsin Hemp Businesses to Shape a Safer Future

Unintentional THC Addition in 60 Wisconsin Pizzas Underscores Urgent Need for Cannabis Safety Standards


Wisconsin Cannabis Safety Alliance – Advancing safe, responsible standards for Wisconsin’s cannabis industry.


Madison, WI – In response to a recent incident where 60 pizzas were unknowingly served with THC-infused dough due to unintentional addition in a shared kitchen, Wisconsin’s cannabis advocates are taking collective action to address safety concerns. Let’s Legalize Wisconsin has formed a coalition inviting all Wisconsin hemp businesses to join in creating a unified voice and working together to establish safe, quality standards for cannabis products statewide.


Temporarily operating as the Wisconsin Cannabis Safety Alliance, the coalition will establish a permanent name once all participating members have joined and agreed upon a unified identity. Supported by the Wisconsin Hemp Farmers and Manufacturers Association (WIHFMA), Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association (ICIA), USDA, Wisconsin Wellness, and Nubreed Equity Acres, this alliance provides a collaborative platform for Wisconsin businesses to align around shared goals. The group’s mission is to protect public safety and ensure that cannabis products are prepared and handled responsibly, offering Wisconsin residents safe access to reliable, effective medicine.


For businesses interested in joining the coalition and contributing to a safer cannabis market, visit makewilegal.org/WCSA


An Incident that Highlights the Need for Change

The contamination occurred in a shared kitchen used by both a pizza company and an edible hemp products business, leading to unintended exposure for consumers. The incident resulted from the incorrect oil being mistakenly used from a cooperative commercial kitchen to prepare a batch of dough. Between October 22 and October 24, 60 contaminated pizzas were unknowingly served to customers.


Rob Pero, founder of the Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association (ICIA) and Wisconsin Wellness, expressed his support, adding, "This incident highlights the risks we face without proper cannabis safety standards. Public safety should be at the forefront, ensuring that consumers know exactly what they’re receiving in every product. This coalition is a step forward in protecting consumers and building trust in Wisconsin’s cannabis industry."


"The pizza incident serves as a reminder of Wisconsin’s unique challenges. Many don’t realize that products like those in legal states are being sold here as ‘hemp-derived,’ often with limited or no oversight. Don’t get me wrong—some businesses go to great lengths to ensure their products are safe and properly tested, and we look forward to their voices guiding this overdue change," said Bob Hickey Jr., founder of Let’s Legalize Wisconsin.


A Unified Voice for Wisconsin Businesses and Public Health

The coalition’s primary purpose is to serve as a unified voice for Wisconsin’s cannabis industry, fostering collaboration on industry-wide standards that ensure safe, high-quality products. Through the partnership of Let's Legalize Wisconsin, WIHFMA, ICIA, USDA, Wisconsin Wellness, and Nubreed Equity Acres, the Wisconsin Cannabis Safety Alliance is working to advance safety, wellness, and community-driven values, all while providing a reliable framework for local businesses.


Phillip Scott, founder of the Wisconsin Hemp Farmers and Manufacturers Association (WIHFMA), emphasized, “Our coalition is built on the principle that safe, high-quality cannabis products benefit everyone in Wisconsin. By working together, hemp and non-cannabis businesses alike can create a secure environment for consumers and set the standard for responsible industry growth in our state."


Dustin Reinheimer, a USDA Sampling Agent for Hemp Farmers across Wisconsin, underscored the coalition’s dedication to quality and safety: “As a USDA hemp agent, my first concern is safety. This includes quality control and fair trade practices. From my years of experience, I see firsthand how important standards are for both farmers and consumers within our community."


Marcus Stallings, founder of Nubreed Equity Acres, added a call for inclusivity: “Bringing social equity to Wisconsin’s hemp industry is not just a goal but a necessity. Through this coalition, we’re working to ensure that everyone—especially those historically underrepresented—has a seat at the table as we build a safe, inclusive, and community-driven future for cannabis in Wisconsin."


Establishing Essential Standards for Safe Access

To protect consumers and establish trust in Wisconsin’s cannabis products, the coalition is advocating for key practices that include:


  • Clear Labeling and Product Testing – Ensuring all products are accurately labeled and tested, minimizing accidental THC exposure.

  • Dedicated Production Spaces – Supporting separate spaces for THC-infused products to prevent cross-contamination with non-cannabis businesses.

  • Compliance Checks and Consumer Protections – Developing protocols to uphold safety and quality, fostering public confidence and health.


Through these standards, the coalition aims to make it easier for consumers to find products that meet established guidelines, ensuring that they know the products they’re buying are safe and responsibly produced.


"Establishing clear guidelines shows our dedication to consumer well-being. With the right standards and education, Wisconsin’s cannabis industry can thrive responsibly and safely," added Hickey. “By joining together, we aim to set a high standard for cannabis in Wisconsin that residents and businesses can trust."


About the Coalition Partners:

  • Let’s Legalize WisconsinA statewide initiative advocating for safe, responsible cannabis legalization through education, community collaboration, and policy engagement. Let's Legalize Wisconsin strives to create a safer, more accessible future for all Wisconsinites.


  • WIHFMA - Advocating for sustainable growth, WIHFMA represents Wisconsin’s hemp farmers and manufacturers.


  • ICIA - Founded by Rob Pero, ICIA works to blend Indigenous practices with the cannabis industry, championing inclusivity and shared growth.


  • USDA - Partnering to promote sustainable farming, USDA brings agricultural expertise to Wisconsin’s cannabis landscape.


  • Wisconsin Wellness - Launched by Rob Pero, Wisconsin Wellness supports the movement for safe, medicinal cannabis access in Wisconsin and focuses on public health through wellness-oriented practices.


  • Nubreed Equity Acres - Focused on equity, Nubreed Equity Acres promotes inclusivity in Wisconsin’s emerging cannabis economy.


Support Safe Access and Industry Standards

Let’s Legalize Wisconsin and its coalition members urge lawmakers to support these essential safety practices. This coalition invites Wisconsin hemp businesses to join in shaping a safer, more transparent path forward for cannabis across the state.


For businesses interested in joining the coalition, visit makewilegal.org/WCSA to learn more and apply.

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