Cannabis extraction & analytical testing involves the processes of extracting beneficial compounds from the cannabis plant and subsequently examining the resulting products for potency, purity, and potential contaminants.
This ensures that cannabis-derived goods meet rigorous quality standards, addressing the unique complexities associated with the plant.
According to Inkwood Research, the global cannabis extraction & analytical testing market is set to develop with a CAGR of 15.77% during the forecast period, 2023 to 2032. Moreover, the market is projected to capture a revenue of $14432.82 million by 2032.
Certified organic cannabis and hemp products, cultivated in adherence to organic standards or surpassing them, offer reduced contamination risk and superior end-product quality for consumers.
Besides, by prioritizing organic practices, producers also demonstrate their commitment to the creation of a safer and more reliable consumer experience.
Quality Assurance: The Need of the Hour in the Cannabis Extraction & Testing Industry
Experts agree that quality assurance and quality control measures required in the development of hemp as well as cannabis-infused foods & beverages are similar to other food products – cannabis ingredient sourcing and selection factor into finished product quality in exactly the same way they do in any other manufactured food product. Accordingly, as per Yasir Hashim, the co-founder and CEO of Lumen, “The key things to watch out for are heavy metals, residual solvents and microbial contaminants that are easy to identify with third party testing.” (Source)
As federal as well as global standards for consumable ingredients contend with how to regulate best practices for consumer safety, quality assurance personnel worldwide are extensively focused on the deployment of a variety of Quality Management System (QMS) products. Looking forward, this factor is also expected to facilitate improved conformance to uniform operating procedures in the global cannabis extraction & analytical testing market.
Cannabis Extraction & Analytical Testing Market: Creating Effective QA Methods
“Quality and consistent ingredient, or raw material sourcing, is a key component to manufacturing a consistent quality cannabis product.” – Lezli Engelking, Founder, Foundation of Cannabis Unified Standards (FOCUS).
Crafting effective quality control methods for cannabis products is essential for ensuring an automated, efficient, and consistent process. Before designing these methods, several key considerations should be taken into account.
Firstly, in the development of Quality Assurance Standard Operating Procedures (QA SOPs), it is crucial to align with state requirements and incorporate existing corporate SOPs. Collaborating with reputable laboratories is also essential in this process. Implementing cannabis quality control measures requires a systematic approach, and the following steps can serve as a comprehensive guide:
- Setting quality control standards in alignment with local regulations to ensure compliance.
- Identify potential hazards and risks associated with the production process through thorough risk assessments.
- Outline the production process steps and associated quality control measures by creating clear and comprehensive SOPs.
- Essential training for employees on SOPs and quality control measures is crucial to promote consistent adherence.
- Regularly audit processes to ensure compliance with quality control measures and identify areas for improvement.
- Enterprise resource planning (ERP) for streamlined operations, ensuring efficient management of resources, compliance, and data, ultimately enhancing the overall effectiveness of testing processes.
Enterprise Resource Planning in Cannabis Extraction & Testing – A Seamless Collaboration
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is ushering in a transformative era for cannabis testing by centralizing and automating crucial processes. Accordingly, companies utilizing ERP and quality management software to streamline business operations can seamlessly integrate cannabis quality control into their overall processes. For example, on December 12, 2023, Rootstock Software, a prominent player in the Manufacturing Cloud ERP domain, announced that Halo Infusions & Extractions, LLC (Halo Infusions) has appointed the company to meticulously monitor and manage its operational costs within the swiftly-evolving cannabis market.
The approach is also instrumental in achieving operational fluidity, automating procedures, documenting issues, and efficiently monitoring and tracking data. The first step towards ensuring quality control success is evaluating and enhancing the compliance process; it involves optimizing QC procedures and aligning them to function seamlessly within the existing regulatory framework. In essence, cannabis ERP systems can help save time as well as money by automating tasks and improving communication between departments.
In January 2021, the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) issued recalls for two cannabis products that failed pesticide tests. And according to recent research, cannabis businesses that prioritize QA processes experience a notable reduction in product recalls, highlighting the tangible impact of stringent quality control measures.
Furthermore, it underscores the increasing importance placed on product quality, with customers opting for brands that focus on rigorous testing and quality control protocols. As the cannabis industry continues to proliferate, investing in comprehensive QA strategies further safeguards consumer well-being, while positioning businesses operating in the cannabis extraction & analytical testing market for sustained growth.
FAQ
Cannabis extraction methods include solvent-based (like CO2 extraction) and solventless methods. These processes aim to isolate cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis plant.
Small-scale producers can adopt cost-effective quality control measures by focusing on essential testing, implementing standardized processes, and leveraging collaboration with reputable testing laboratories to ensure product safety and quality.