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Review outlines analytical frameworks to standardise cannabis testing and potency labelling
This review evaluated current analytical techniques for measuring cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids across various product formats. The authors proposed a standardised testing framework merging validated potency assays with multivariate fingerprinting to address widespread laboratory variability. However, the paper is a literature synthesis rather than an empirical study testing these protocols in a real-world regulatory environment.
- Chemical profiles of cannabis products vary significantly due to genetics, cultivation, extraction, and storage conditions.
- Inconsistent laboratory practices and validation standards currently undermine the accuracy of product potency labelling.
- Integrating targeted potency testing with chemometric fingerprinting can improve data integrity and regulatory compliance.
Our view
This carries practical weight for quality control. The same product name can cover very different chemical profiles depending on cultivar, growing conditions, extraction and storage. Add laboratory-to-laboratory variability and the stated potency stops being reliable. For medical use this cannot be worked around. As a company that holds cultivation through to product, we consider method validation something that belongs inside the process, not alongside it.
Sources
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