California cannabis regulators are currently seeking comments on proposed rules to standardize cannabis testing methods in the state — an effort that officials hope will prevent cannabis companies from “shopping cannabis.” lab” to find facilities that are more likely to show higher THC concentrations that they can then tout for their products.
Although there are already statewide rules that require cannabis products to be tested for cannabinoid content and possible contaminants, licensed testing labs do not have a uniform methodology, which means that the results of the analyzes of the same sample of cannabis can vary from one establishment to another.
Due to consumer demand for products high in THC, the State says it is aware of instances where some cannabis companies are scouring labs to find those whose testing methodology tends to produce results showing a higher amount of THC.
To address this issue, the California Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) announced on Friday that it was launching a regulatory process to develop standardized testing methods that every licensed laboratory should adopt.
“One of the challenges we face in regulating an industry that is not federally recognized is the lack of standardized and validated test methods,” Nicole Elliott, director of the DCC, said in a press release. hurry.
“Accredited laboratories use different methods that can produce inconsistent results and inaccurate data on the cannabinoid content of cannabis. The CDC is working to change that so that there is greater integrity in the marketplace, accurate information for consumers, and trust among stakeholders. »
The CDC will accept public comments on the draft Cannabis Testing Methods Regulations until August 2.
“These standards build on existing standards for testing laboratories by requiring that they use only CDC-designated cannabinoid testing methods,” Elliott said. “The ultimate goal is to protect public health and safety by providing consumers with accurate and consistent information about the cannabis they purchase. »
