SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA 1/24/18 – A record number of cannabis laboratories participated in the Emerald Test, an inter-laboratory comparison and proficiency program that aims to improve cannabis production across the industry, according to a press release.
Developed by Emerald Scientific, the bi-annual test provides cannabis laboratories with an opportunity to demonstrate their competence to existing clients, potential customers, regulatory agencies and accreditation bodies. The test seeks to establish an industry benchmark for cannabis testing while giving valuable feedback to the laboratory’s quality assurance system.
This fall, 58 laboratories, representing 13 states and two countries, enrolled in the Emerald Test, marking the 7th consecutive time the number of participants increased.
More than 190 proficiency tests were taken, with most laboratories enrolling in at least three tests. A test for potency continued to rank as the most popular, but tests for residual solvents and microbial contaminate also drew a sizeable number of participants. A new test for terpenes generated great interest and will soon be available for Emerald Badge consideration.
The Emerald program is guided by an advisory panel of chemists, accreditation providers, laboratory owners and other industry experts to ensure the program is representative of the needs and capabilities of the industry while maintaining integrity and objectivity.
To that end, Emerald plans to introduce a Myxotoxin PT during the next Emerald Test, which will begin enrollment on March 14.
“We value, appreciate and thank all of our partners in the cannabis testing community for your continued participation and support of the Emerald Test ILC/PT. The fact that many laboratories have been regular participants in both the spring and fall rounds speaks volumes about their commitment to quality assurance, regulatory compliance and consumer safety,” said Ken Groggel, Director of the Proficiency Testing Program. “The collegial attitude of open communication and shared experience increases our knowledge and ensures continued success for all involved.”
