Pubdate: Thu, 13 Dec 2001 Source: Shepherd Express (WI) Copyright: 2001 Alternative Publications Inc. Contact: http://www.shepherd-express.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/414 Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/hemp.htm (Hemp) OUTPOST HEMP WON'T BE BANNED We at the Outpost would like to correct and clarify our position on hemp products and DEA regulation referred to in your Dec. 6 story. ["Hemp Food Ban Hits Here."] At no time was it stated or implied that the hemp products we had on sale at our Capitol Drive location were being, "Put on sale to reduce stock before the deadline." In fact, the two items on sale were being discontinued due to slow sales. We have dozens of other products throughout our stores that contain hemp, and we intend to keep selling these popular items. If any of our employees were not sure of potentially banned products, that is because none of the products we currently sell, to our knowledge, would fall under any proposed ban. Our primary distributor requested and received documentation from all of their suppliers of hemp products indicating that their products are free of THC and in full compliance with the DEA guideline, and have been for some time. As far as can be determined, none of the food products or health and beauty aid products we carry in our stores are in immediate danger of being quarantined or pulled off the market. The DEA proposed guidelines state that foods that contain THC are illegal. Properly cleaned and hulled hemp seeds do not contain THC. It's our belief that the Interim Rule is a clarification of the basis under which the DEA, U.S. Customs, and all responsible hempseed importers have been operating under for quite some time-hempseed products may not contain THC. We would agree that it's unfortunate the DEA is putting energy into restricting the hemp industry even further. No responsible hemp producer would sell THC-containing products. Hemp is a nutritious, incredibly environmentally sound crop with dozens of industrial uses. Outpost Natural Foods Co-op will continue selling the viable and legal hemp products that our customers and owners expect. Lisa Malmarowski Marketing Manager Outpost Natural Foods - --- MAP posted-by: Beth