After the vaping crisis in 2019, California ordered several studies to understand better the complexities of growing cannabis and the necessity of thorough analysis by a qualified lab before a manufacturer can distribute a product to consumers. There are many opportunities for cannabis to become compromised by chemicals, mold, or heavy metals during the growth and manufacturing process. Many growers were blindsided by new regulations and lost profits because of a lack of lab testing, as these new laws affected the market. The high demand for hemp and cannabis products is drawing manufacturers big and small to this highly profitable industry; however, as state laws continue to change rapidly, the best way to protect your brand reputation is to work with a reputable testing lab.
Consumer Safety
Cannabis is a notoriously absorbent plant and goes through many stages, from seed to processing, before it ends up in the hands of a consumer. Along the way, there are many potential sources of contamination, which is why lab testing is so important. Heavy metals found in soil can be absorbed through the roots and concentrated in the plant. Cannabis is so effective it’s often used in clean-up efforts after dangerous materials have leaked into the soil. Cannabis is also effective in retaining natural moisture and can foster the growth of microbes. Pesticides and processing chemicals can be absorbed and contribute to dangerous levels for consumers if proper testing isn’t in place. Plant contamination is widespread, and any potential contaminant poses a risk to consumers’ health. Cannabis testing is the only way to ensure that your products are safe for consumption.
Product Assurance
Once you’re confident you have a safe product, the second-biggest priority for manufacturers is quality assurance. To build a reputable brand in the cannabis industry, consumers look for a predictable and reliable experience. So you want to make sure you’re offering the highest quality possible and ensure that your product is consistent. Testing can help with that by allowing you to access several characteristics like potency so you can inform your customers about exactly what they are getting.
Meeting Government Regulations
As the industry grows, government regulations will continue to protect consumers. For example, if you’re planning to sell products in California, you cannot sell from a state-licensed dispensary without undergoing testing.
It’s the manufacturer’s responsibility to get their products tested before products can legally be sold. It’s also the responsibility of the manufacturer to know which tests are required for different products, as the regulations vary.
Typically products are tested for potency, foreign materials, microbial impurities, water content, mycotoxins, pesticides, residual solvents, terpenoids, and processing chemicals. Having the proper paperwork to prove that your product is high quality and safe for consumers is critical in the current cannabis market.
How do I find a quality lab?
When choosing a lab for cannabis testing, accuracy is an essential quality. At LUX Leaf DX, we understand that your business depends on getting accurate information about your product; we invested heavily in developing a state-of-the-art lab and pride ourselves on fast, accurate test results. Our technicians work hard to meet all your testing needs, and we understand the evolving needs of this industry. We have heavily invested in quality equipment, software, and a nationwide courier network and streamlined our processes to enable our talented lab technicians to deliver quick results for our clients. We want to partner with you and help you help your business reach its full potential.