Illegal THC Found in Over Half of Milwaukee Hemp Products

Lab testing by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel raises concerns about lack of regulation in Wisconsin's hemp industry.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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A recent investigation by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel found that more than half of 30 legal hemp products tested from around the Milwaukee area contained illegal amounts of THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana. This raises concerns about the need for stronger government regulations and oversight of the hemp industry in Wisconsin.

Why it matters

The hemp industry has grown rapidly in recent years, with many touting its potential economic benefits. However, this investigation highlights the risks of an unregulated market, where consumers may be unknowingly purchasing products that contain illegal and potentially dangerous levels of THC.

The details

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel paid a lab to test 30 hemp products purchased from retailers around the Milwaukee area. More than half of the products were found to contain THC levels above the legal limit of 0.3%. This means consumers could be buying products that are technically considered marijuana, which remains illegal in Wisconsin.

  • The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel investigation was published on February 22, 2026.

The players

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

A major daily newspaper serving the Milwaukee metropolitan area.

Dennis Marsolek

A resident of Cudahy, Wisconsin who wrote a letter to the editor in response to the Journal Sentinel's investigation.

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What they’re saying

“The information in this article clearly illustrated why the public cannot trust an industry to police itself.”

— Dennis Marsolek, Cudahy Resident (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

What’s next

The Wisconsin state legislature is expected to consider new regulations for the hemp industry in the upcoming legislative session.

The takeaway

This investigation highlights the need for stronger government oversight and regulation of the hemp industry in Wisconsin to protect consumers and ensure product safety and quality.