The proposed ban comes as the nation grapples with a mysterious lung disease linked to e-cigarettes and marijuana vape pens

Colorado’s marijuana regulators are finalizing a ban on certain additives in cannabis vape products, a significant step given new urgency by a national crisis over a mysterious lung disease linked to e-cigarettes and marijuana vape pens.

The state’s Marijuana Enforcement Division proposed finalized rules include prohibiting certain ingredients in marijuana vaping products that will be discussed in a Tuesday public hearing. The proposed changes were crafted with information from industry stakeholders’ discussions and recommendations, said Shannon Gray, marijuana communications specialist at the Colorado Department of Revenue.

The proposed prohibitions in ingredients used in marijuana concentrates or products intended for inhalation include:

• • Polyethylene glycol (PEG);
  • Vitamin E Acetate; and
  • Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT Oil)

THC oil, in its natural form, is too thick to be atomized or vaporized. These additives are sometimes used as thinning agents to cut the oil and make it possible for vaporization and inhalation. While the research is still in its infancy, multiple studies have shown that polyethylene glycol breaks down into carcinogens when vaped at high temperatures.

The rule, if approved, will go into effect Jan. 1. [Read More @ The Denver Post]