When it comes to cannabis, quality and safety should never be compromised. At Dreamz Dispensary in New Mexico, we prioritize not just the potency of our products, but also their purity. We believe cannabis lab testing is extremely important to the cannabis industry and you, the enjoyer.
But what does lab testing mean, and why is it important? In this post, we’ll look at what cannabis lab testing is, what it does, and why it’s important for consumers and cultivators alike. We’ll also explain what to look for when reviewing cannabis lab reports and how to tell if you’re getting what you’re looking for.
Understanding Cannabis Lab Testing
Lab testing is a critical process that examines cannabis products for a variety of factors, including cannabinoid content, terpene profiles, and the presence of any harmful substances. These tests are conducted in state-certified laboratories with specialized equipment, ensuring that every product sold meets stringent health and safety standards.
Most labs conduct a variety of tests on samples from producers, cultivators, and processors to verify potency, ingredients, and cannabinoid contents. These labs also look for the presence of any unwanted or harmful materials, such as harmful pesticides or heavy metals.
Cannabinoid Profiling
Cannabis contains a variety of cannabinoids – not just the Delta 9 THC we know and love – and all of these cannabinoids affect the way a cultivar may make you feel. Cannabinoid profiling through testing is important for gauging this. Lab tests measure levels of cannabinoids, providing precise data that helps consumers choose products that suit their needs and preferences.
Cannabinoid profiling also verifies that what the product packaging says is accurate. It ensures that distributors and cultivators can’t lie about the potency or contents of their products.
Safety Screening
Beyond cannabinoids, lab testing also searches for harmful contaminants in cannabis products such as harmful pesticides, heavy metals, or mold. This screening is crucial, as these substances can pose significant health risks if ingested. Safety screening through lab testing helps keep those making the products accountable and prevents harmful cannabis products from entering the market.
That’s why you should never purchase cannabis from a storefront or distributor that does not offer lab results. Lab test reports keep you safe!
Why is Cannabis Lab Testing Beneficial?
Consumer Safety
First and foremost, lab testing ensures consumer safety. By verifying that our products are free from contaminants and accurately labeled for THC and CBD content, we help protect our customers from potential health hazards and ensure a safe, enjoyable experience.
Enhanced Transparency
Lab testing also promotes transparency, building trust between us and our customers. Each product comes with a certificate of analysis (COA), which details its full chemical makeup. This openness allows consumers to make informed decisions about the cannabis they choose.
Consistent Quality
Consistency is key to providing a reliable consumer experience. Lab tests help us ensure that each product batch meets the same high standards of quality and efficacy, so our customers know exactly what to expect every time they visit Dreamz.
How to Read Cannabis Lab COAs
Understanding a Certificate of Analysis (COA) is essential for any cannabis consumer who wants to be informed about the quality and safety of their products. A COA is a document issued by an accredited laboratory that details the various tests conducted on cannabis products and the results of those tests. Here’s a guide to help you navigate through a COA effectively.
Identifying Basic Information
First, check the basic information on the COA, which includes the product name, batch number, and the date of testing. This information ensures that the COA corresponds to the specific product you have purchased or are considering purchasing. If they don’t add up, you may be viewing the wrong COA or the COA may be outdated or inaccurate.
Cannabinoid Content
One of the most critical sections of a COA is the cannabinoid profile. This part of the report lists the percentages or concentrations of cannabinoids, such as THC, CBD, CBG, and others, present in the product. These figures help you understand the potency of the product and can guide you in dosing, especially if you’re using cannabis for therapeutic purposes.
- THC and CBD Levels: These are usually the most prominent figures, indicating the psychoactive potency (THC) and non-psychoactive components (CBD) of the product.
- Minor Cannabinoids: Additional cannabinoids like CBN, CBC, and THCV are also listed, which may contribute to the product’s overall effect through the “entourage effect.”
Safety Tests
The safety section of the COA is crucial for ensuring that the product is free from harmful contaminants. Look for these key tests:
- Pesticides: Ensures that the cannabis is free from harmful chemical pesticides.
- Heavy Metals: Tests for contaminants like lead, arsenic, and mercury.
- Microbiological Screening: Checks for the presence of harmful bacteria and fungi.
- Residual Solvents: Important for products extracted with solvents, ensuring no harmful residues are left.
Terpene Profile
If included, the terpene profile will list the aromatic compounds in the cannabis product, which influence its scent and can also affect its effects. Terpenes like myrcene, limonene, and pinene have specific potential benefits and contribute to the overall experience of the product.
Interpreting the Results
Each test result will be accompanied by a ‘pass’ or ‘fail’ status. Products that pass all their tests are considered safe for consumption, whereas any failure, especially in safety tests, would indicate a problem.
Understanding a COA allows you to make informed choices about the cannabis products you purchase, ensuring they are both safe and suited to your needs. By familiarizing yourself with how to read these documents, you can take an active role in your cannabis experience, selecting products that meet the highest standards of quality and safety.
Conclusion: Pay Attention to Cannabis Labs
Lab Testing is crucial for safety, consistency, and quality in the cannabis industry. By understanding why labs are important and how to read COAs, you can better understand what you’re getting from your products and what to look for when you’re shopping for cannabis.
We hope this post helped you learn more about cannabis lab testing! For more information, visit a Dreamz Dispensary near you at any of our locations across New Mexico and as one of our friendly budtenders. We’re happy to help! Check out our blog for more information about cannabis, and order ahead online by checking out our products.
