Uruguay releases its strongest cannabis: Epsilon

A new cannabis strain, Epsilon, with rates of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) higher than the previous ones, is expected to be available in Uruguayan pharmacies before the end of the year.

Epsilon: A Newcomer to the Market

With THC levels reaching 20% and exceeding those of the current variants such as Alpha and Beta (which contain THC levels of up to 9 %) and Gamma (which offers up to 15 %), Epsilon should meet the needs of consumers looking for more potent effects.

The initiative aims to address the growing demand for cannabis in pharmacies while upholding the country’s commitment to regulating cannabis use through legal and regulated channels.

The IRCCA confirmed that the THC content of each batch of Epsilon may vary slightly, but that the upper limit would remain set at 20 %.

As a representative explained, «It's about agriculture,» which indicates that slight variations are expected despite the highly regulated and technical cultivation processes designed to ensure consistency.

The organization also hinted that the public could expect the Epsilon to be available between November and December, although no official launch date has been confirmed.

Giving Consumers a Choice

Daniel Radío, general secretary of the National Drug Council (JND), is one of the leading advocates for bringing Epsilon to market.

In an interview with Radiomundo, Mr. Radío emphasized the importance of offering a variety of products to the public as part of the government’s broader strategy to regulate cannabis use. He argued that offering consumers choices would encourage them to buy legally rather than turn to the black market.

Mr. Radío drew a parallel between the cannabis industry and the production of alcoholic beverages, especially wine. He pointed out that while some people choose to make their own wine, most prefer to buy it in stores, where they can choose from a wide range of varieties, such as Tannat, Cabernet, Merlot, and Tempranillo. Similarly, he believes that by offering different varieties of cannabis in pharmacies, the government enables consumers to make informed choices, which enhances the effectiveness of the regulations.

Radío said : «What happened with cannabis was that people grew it in their gardens or bought it from illegal dealers.”. »When they went shopping, they had no choice.".

He emphasized that the lack of variety in legal markets prompted some people to turn to the black market, and that expanding the product line could potentially change this trend.

Mr. Radío’s vision extends beyond Epsilon. He expressed optimism about the introduction of other variants on the market, particularly those containing cannabidiol (CBD) but no THC, in order to attract consumers looking for non-psychoactive options.

Criticism and Concerns

However, not everyone is in favor of this new cannabis strain.

Lorena Quintana, candidate for the vice presidency from Open Council, expressed her opposition to Epsilon’s higher THC content, criticizing the promotion of a product with more potent psychoactive properties. Ms. Quintana spoke out on X (formerly Twitter), where she shared her concerns about the potential harmful effects of cannabis, particularly those related to doses higher THC levels.

«We still don’t know the harmful effects of cannabis, but we’re selling it in pharmacies as something beneficial. Studies focus on low doses of the active ingredient, and the harm is already evident,» wrote Ms. Quintana, reflecting her unease with the growing normalization of cannabis use.

She added : «Only in the realm of the backward-thinking do people celebrate the fact that cannabis will be sold in higher doses in December and that it will “have a stronger effect.”».

His comments shed light on the current debate over cannabis regulation in Uruguay. While the government seeks to offer consumers a safer, regulated option, some critics are wary of the health risks and societal implications of greater availability of stronger cannabis strains.