Colorado law requires all retail (recreational) marijuana to be tested for cannabinoid potency and contaminants prior to sale. The results of these analyses from a State-licensed marijuana testing lab and the methods used to perform them will be presented. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is used to analyze cannabis flowers, concentrates and infused products for THC, THCA, CBD, CBDA and CBN potency levels. Chemical and biological contaminant testing is also required by law. Gas chromatography (GC) detects residual extraction solvents such as butane and heptane, while mass spectrometry (LCMS) equipment is used to test for pesticides and other harmful chemicals. Biological contaminants including bacteria (E. coli and Salmonella) and fungi including Aspergillus are assayed using traditional culture methods and advanced molecular detection with real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Potency and contaminant testing of retail marijuana in Colorado

249th National Meeting (2015)

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