Aside from obtaining the necessary licenses and permits, another vital part of opening a cannabis business is to develop accurate and compliant product labels. Your first step is ensuring a reputable cannabis lab properly tests your product and that the potency results are included on the label.
What Do Testing Labs Measure in Cannabis Products?
Cannabis product testing labs like BelCosta Labs potency tests measure various factors to determine a product’s quality and safety. These include:
- THC potency. The THC potency of a cannabis product is perhaps the most important factor that labs measure. THC is the major psychoactive compound in cannabis and is what gives users the “high” associated with consuming marijuana. The THC content of a product will determine its effects, as well as whether or not it is legal in your state. In California, all cannabis products must have a THC content of less than 10% per serving.
- CBD potency. CBD is another important compound in cannabis that has various potential health benefits. CBD is non-psychoactive, or it will not get you “high.” However, it has been shown to relieve anxiety, pain, and inflammation.
- Pesticide residues. Unfortunately, some growers use harmful pesticides on their crops to keep pests away. These pesticides can be dangerous for human consumption and potentially cause health problems. That’s why it’s essential to ensure your cannabis product has been tested for pesticide residue. Check here to know more.
- Microbial contaminants. Microbial contaminants like mold and bacteria can also be present in cannabis products. These contaminants can cause serious health problems, so your product must be free of them.
- Residual solvents. Residual solvents are chemicals used in the cannabis extraction process. Some solvents, such as butane, ethanol, and hexane, can be dangerous for human consumption.
- Terpene Testing. Terpenes are compounds found in marijuana that give the plant its unique smell and flavor. They also have various potential health benefits. Terpenes help you know what effect a cannabis product will have before you consume it. For example, a cannabis product with high levels of terpene myrcene is more likely to make you feel sleepy.
Is It Expensive to Have Cannabis Products Tested?
The cost of having your cannabis product tested will depend on the product type and the specific tests that need to be performed. However, most labs offer discounts for bulk testing. In addition, having your products tested complies with state regulations preventing you from landing in hot water with the authorities.
What to Include in Your Cannabis Product Label
Cannabis product labeling is critical in getting your cannabis business up and running. Below are the key things you need to include on your product label:
- The name and address of your cannabis business
- A description of the product
- The THC potency of the product
- The CBD potency of the product (if applicable)
- The serving size
- The number of servings in the package
- The ingredients in the product
- Any potential allergens
- The date of manufacture
- The date of expiration
- The name and address of the cannabis testing lab that tested the product
- A statement stating that the product is for adult use only.
In addition to the above information, you must include a warning label on your cannabis product. The warning label should consist of the following information:
- This product contains THC.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- For adult use only.
- Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug.
- Cannabis products may impair concentration, coordination, and judgment.
- Do not use it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Cannabis use while pregnant can result in low birth weight babies. Cannabis use can lead to dependence.
- Stop using if you experience unusual symptoms.
The above information is just a guide. For more specific information on cannabis product labeling, you can consult your state’s cannabis regulations.
Final Thoughts
Cannabis product testing is a critical step in ensuring the safety and quality of your product. Make sure you choose a reputable testing lab to test your product for potency, contaminants, and residual solvents. Include all the required information on your product label, including the name and address of the testing lab. Following these tips will help you stay compliant with state regulations and ensure that your customers get a safe, high-quality product.