Regulated Plant Testing Guidance

The Regulated Cannabis Testing Guidance course is designed to navigate the complex landscape of cannabis testing regulations, ensuring participants gain a solid foundation in the current standards and methodologies required for compliance. With the cannabis industry rapidly expanding and regulations continuously evolving, understanding the intricacies of state versus federal regulations is crucial for anyone involved in the cannabis testing sector.

The course delves into the differences between state and federal regulations, highlighting the variance in requirements across different states. For example, while cannabis remains a Schedule I controlled substance at the federal level, many states have established their own regulatory frameworks for medical or recreational use, each with unique testing standards for potency, contaminants, and terpenes. This course provides an in-depth look at these regulations, including the specific areas they cover such as testing methodologies, laboratory standards, and allowable limits for various substances.

Participants will learn about the evolution of cannabis testing regulations, which have expanded from basic potency tests for THC and CBD to more comprehensive analyses covering a wide array of cannabinoids, terpenes, and contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, residual solvents, and microbial contaminants. Covering the requirements for laboratory accreditation, equipment standards, and the qualifications needed for personnel within testing facilities. It also addresses the trend towards third-party testing to ensure unbiased results, enhancing consumer safety and product reliability.

The content is informed by real-world examples of state-specific regulations, such as Colorado’s inclusion of concentrates in mandatory mycotoxin testing and the prohibition of certain substances in vape products. It also looks at the microbial testing regulations in various states, illustrating the diversity in testing requirements for pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli, as well as different molds and yeasts across inhalable and non-inhalable cannabis products.

After completion,  participants will be equipped with the knowledge to navigate the regulatory landscape effectively, ensuring compliance and contributing to the safety and quality of cannabis products in the market. Whether you’re a laboratory professional, a cannabis business operator, or someone looking to enter the field, this course offers comprehensive guidance to meet the stringent demands of cannabis testing regulations.