The Science Behind Cannabis Testing
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July 6, 2023The Science Behind Cannabis Testing
Cannabis testing is a crucial process in the cannabis industry, ensuring that products meet regulatory standards and are safe for consumption. The science behind cannabis testing involves analyzing various compounds present in the cannabis plant, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and contaminants such as pesticides and heavy metals.
One of the primary objectives of cannabis testing is to measure the concentration of cannabinoids in the plant material, particularly THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). These compounds have different effects on the body and can produce different therapeutic outcomes. Testing also involves measuring the presence of other cannabinoids like CBG (cannabigerol) and CBN (cannabinol). Additionally, terpenes, which are aromatic compounds responsible for the plant’s unique flavor and aroma, are also analyzed. The presence of specific terpenes can affect the overall experience of using the product.
To ensure the safety of cannabis products, testing also involves identifying and measuring the presence of harmful contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, and residual solvents. These contaminants can be harmful to human health and can negatively impact the quality of the product. The testing process involves utilizing sophisticated laboratory equipment and techniques such as gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry.
In summary, cannabis testing involves analyzing various compounds in the plant material to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and to guarantee the safety and quality of the product. By measuring the concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes, testing can help users find the products that best suit their needs. Additionally, by identifying and measuring the presence of harmful contaminants, cannabis testing can protect consumers from potential health risks associated with consuming contaminated products.
How many grams/ounces need to be submitted to testing based off how many pounds were harvested?
For compliance samples and testing, the amount of material needed to be sampled and tested is dependent on the lot/batch size and the number of total produced units per lot. Each sample increment consists of 1 packaged unit, as would be sold to consumers. (Examples: 3.5-gram jar of flower, packaged unit of 2x 0.5g pre-rolls, 0.5g vape cartridge, etc.) Sampling size guidance can be found in the Sampling Quality System Standards dated 08-19-2022 (Link- https://cannabis.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2022/08/sampling-quality-system-standards-08-19-22-final.pdf)
| Cannabis Product or Pre roll Batch Size (units) | Number of Sample Increments (per sample) |
| ≤ 50– 500 | 5 |
| 501 – 1,200 | 8 |
| 1,201 – 3,200 | 13 |
| 3,201 – 10,000 | 20 |
| 10,001 – 35,000 | 32 |
| 35,001 – 150,000 | 50 |
About Talon Analytical
Talon Analytical is a fully accredited cannabis testing laboratory permitted by the Office of Cannabis Management and specializes in testing Hemp, Adult-Use, and Medicinal Cannabis in New York State, our lab is based out of Long Island, NY. Talon is proud to be ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited by A2LA in biological and chemical testing. We provide industry-leading analytical testing services with fast turn around and accurate results for the cannabis industry.
We want our clients to know that they have the industry’s leading products and consumers to know the same. This is why we don’t just offer a wide array of cannabis testing; we go above and beyond to help our clients thoroughly understand our process and effectively optimize theirs. Talon Analytical is certified for Pesticide Testing, Potency Testing, Heavy Metal Testing, Mycotoxin testing, Water activity testing, moisture content testing, filth and foreign material screening, and Microbial Contamination Testing.
