Committee Blog: The Benefits of Intrusion Systems in Cannabis Retail – Ensuring Security and Compliance
The cannabis industry has seen tremendous growth in recent years, with more and more states legalizing its use for medical or recreational purposes. With this expansion comes a need for comprehensive security solutions to protect businesses from potential threats. While they are just one component in a comprehensive security strategy, intrusion systems play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of employees, customers, products and cash for cannabis retailers.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the benefits intrusion systems specifically tailored for cannabis industry retailers and consultants – and what a full-service security provider like Vector Security, which offers a dedicated cannabis team of experts – can provide when it comes to protecting your business.
Enhanced Security
One of the primary reasons why intrusion systems are essential in cannabis retail is their ability to enhance overall security. By monitoring and detecting intrusion, these systems prevent unauthorized entry into sensitive areas such as stock rooms, storage areas, cash registers and safes, and computer/networking equipment and devices. This level of control significantly reduces the risk of break-ins, internal and external theft, vandalism and other criminal activities by limiting access to authorized personnel only.
Immediate Alerts
Intrusion systems are equipped with advanced technology that can detect unauthorized entry or tampering with security equipment. Motion detectors, glass-break and door/window sensors trigger visual and audible alarms to ward off intruders, while providing real-time alerts to store owners and other stakeholders as well as alarm monitoring operators. If the emergency is real, authorities are dispatched to the location of the intrusion. This swift response time is crucial in preventing further damage or loss. Professionally monitored intrusion systems ensure your cannabis facility is protected around the clock – during and after business hours, and even on holidays.
Compliance with Regulations
Operating within the cannabis industry means complying with strict regulatory frameworks that can vary from state to state. These regulations often include guidelines related to security and surveillance. Intrusion systems are a vital component in meeting these requirements. By maintaining accurate records of security incidents, cannabis retailers can demonstrate their commitment to compliance during audits. Here is where a seasoned security provider, like Vector Security, can advise and design a system that complies with regulatory requirements.
Protection of High-Value Products
Cannabis products have significant value, making them attractive targets for criminals. Whether it’s the actual flower, edibles or concentrates, protecting these assets is crucial for a successful business. Intrusion systems help safeguard inventory, reducing the risk of internal and external theft and ensuring product availability for legitimate customers.
Cash Management
Cash remains a primary form of payment in many cannabis dispensaries. This makes retailers vulnerable to theft and robberies. In areas where cash is kept, intrusion systems can provide an added layer of security by securing cash registers, safes and other cash-handling areas.
Panic Alarms
In addition to detecting unauthorized entries, modern intrusion systems often include panic alarms. These alarms allow employees to quickly signal for help in emergency situations. Whether it’s a medical issue, a threat from a customer or any other crisis, panic alarms provide immediate assistance. Install panic buttons around the store and in areas with cash so employees can safely and discreetly summon authorities in the event of an emergency, like during a burglary or hold-up robbery.
Scalability
As the cannabis retail industry continues to expand, scalability becomes crucial. An initial investment in a comprehensive and flexible security solution ensures that the system can grow along with your business. Whether opening additional stores or cultivation facilities, retailers should be able to seamlessly integrate new locations into their existing security infrastructure. Make sure your security provider can adapt your security solution to respond to your business’s changing needs, including responding to new threats or opportunities.
Conclusion
Intrusion systems are not only about preventing break-ins, they are also essential tools for maintaining compliance, protecting valuable assets, and ensuring the safety of employees and customers. By investing in robust security solutions, cannabis retailers can focus on their core business knowing that their facilities are well-protected.
Remember that while effective at providing a layer of protection, intrusion systems are just one component of a comprehensive security plan for cannabis businesses. It’s beneficial to work with a full-service security provider that can design a complete plan that integrates and streamlines all parts of your security, such as video surveillance, access control, fire and environmental monitoring, panic alarms and more. Working with a full-service vendor that has expertise in the cannabis industry ensures you’ll receive the range of products and services you need, with tailored solutions that meet the unique demands of your cannabis business.
Member Blog: How Barcoding Can Improve Your Cannabis Sample Management
Cannabis testing is fundamental to ensuring the quality and safety of products in this rapidly growing industry. Within your lab environment, you face many challenges, from varying testing requirements across states to equipping your lab with the right analytical instruments and qualified professionals. Another critical aspect of cannabis testing is preparing individual samples and ensuring accurate data, which can be daunting.
When it comes to chromatography, a significant amount of time is often spent on the preparation of samples. Within the final stages of your preparation, the manual process of printing and hand-applying labels or hand writing with a sharpie can be time-consuming, potentially slowing down laboratory workflows. The time spent on printing, peeling, and precisely applying labels manually is time that could be redirected towards more important tasks. Additionally, hand-labeling your samples increases the risk of errors, such as lost samples and data mix-ups, which can compromise the accuracy and reliability of your results.
There is a solution that not only reduces errors and saves time but also enhances data integrity—barcoding your samples can greatly improve operations within your cannabis testing lab.
The Power of Barcoded Vials
The first step toward enhancing sample identification begins with adding a unique identifier to each vial. By implementing a barcode as the unique identifier, laboratories can confidently trace the entire lifecycle of a sample, from its creation to analysis and storage. This digital fingerprint facilitates seamless tracking within a laboratory, standardizes data exchange, and promotes collaboration across systems and institutions.
Here’s how barcoded vials can transform your lab:
Improve Your Audit Trail: Implementing barcoded vials enables effortless tracking and precise documentation of each experiment step. This enhancement not only improves compliance with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) regulations but also enhances data quality and integrity.
Streamlined Sequence Table Management: Reduce the risk of misloading samples in the autosampler rack and sequence table. By simply scanning the barcode and placing your samples in the tray, you can significantly decrease the potential for errors.
Enhance Efficiency: Manual labeling is time-consuming and error prone. Barcoded vials streamline your workflow, allowing for faster processing times and reducing the risk of human error.
How to Integrate Barcoded Labware to Your Workflow
Integrating barcoded chromatography vials into your lab workflow or automated prep systems is seamless. Simply add a USB scanner to your equipment, and experience a continuous workflow from sample preparation to data management:
Identify Samples in LIMS: Easily integrate barcoded data into your Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for streamlined data management.
Scan into Sequence Table: Use the USB scanner to scan vials into the sequence table, enhancing traceability and organization.
Load into Autosampler Rack: Place your pre-barcoded chromatography vials into the autosampler rack without the hassle of manual labeling.
Sample Prep with Confidence: Run your experiments with confidence, knowing that your samples are correctly located and identified.
Challenges of Manual Labeling
Adding a barcoded label to your chromatography vial ensures a reliable and traceable identifier. However, achieving the optimal positioning of labels on your vials take a high level of precision. In a field where accuracy is vital, the meticulous task of aligning labels becomes critical. The label must not only be placed in the correct position, but also without any wrinkles. This is especially crucial for instruments equipped with built-in scanners designed to read barcodes. A misaligned or wrinkled label can obstruct the scanner’s ability to accurately capture the barcode data, introducing the potential for errors in sample identification.
Another challenge of manual labeling is preventing barcode duplicates, especially when multiple individuals in labs are involved in the printing process. Coordinating and managing sequences manually can lead to errors, potentially causing duplicate barcodes. This scenario not only compromises data integrity but also limits the smooth functioning of laboratory operations.
Outsourcing Label Application
To address these challenges and increase efficiency in your testing environments, labs should consider outsourcing their label application, such as Labware Prep™ Services by Computype. This alternative solution allows laboratories to remove the printing and application of labels inhouse. By outsourcing this tedious process, you eliminate the prep work needed before testing and analysis, streamlining laboratory workflows and mitigating the risks of mislabeled or lost samples. With this service, you can experience significant time, budget, staffing, and inventory savings.
Computype’s Labware Prep™ Services go beyond adding barcodes to your labware. Your labware arrives ready for immediate use, procured, custom-marked, prepared and packages to your specification. Your specific needs, combined with our barcode sequence management service, global account management, and strict quality standards ensure that you’ll be spending more time on scientific activities, and less time worrying about labware and labeling. Here’s how we can help:
Labeling, Marking, and Sequence Management: Receive your labware pre-labeled to your specifications, including custom numbering and sequencing. Select from a variety of marking technologies designed to survive chemical and temperature exposure.
Labware Procurement: Save time and money by outsourcing the procurement of consumable labware. We source containers according to your desired specifications and budget, ensuring you receive high-quality labware without the hassle.
Tare Weighing: Free yourself to focus on the science while we handle the weighing. Each piece of labware is weighed to a tenth of a milligram, with an output file provided for easy reference.
This service is a transformative solution for chromatography testing, offering a strategic advantage by combining efficiency, precision, and compatibility with automation. Laboratories leveraging these services experience not only enhanced operational efficiency but also the assurance of accurate and reliable results in their chromatography testing.
Transform Your Research Environment
As the cannabis testing industry continues to grow and evolve, accurate sample management has never been more vital. By partnering with Computype, you can eliminate the inefficiencies of hand labeling and ensure your lab operates at peak productivity. Our Labware Prep™ Services provide the ultimate solution for enhancing your lab’s efficiency, accuracy, and compliance.
Eliminate the hassle of individually labeling each vial and let Computype transform your laboratory with the power of barcoding. Our experts are ready to assist you in streamlining your workflows and ensuring the highest standards of sample management. Contact Computype today to learn more about how our Labware Prep™ Services can benefit your lab.
Member Blog: The Science of Smokeability
While there’s a lot more science involved in the cannabis industry today than back when folks were growing in closets or on hidden hillsides, none of that science has focused on the end user.
We know how to increase yield and cannabinoid production, for example, but there hasn’t been any real research done on how cultivation techniques or delivery methods affect the smokeability of the product from the consumer standpoint.
Until now, that is.
The cannabis industry is entering a new era of scientific rigor and consumer-focused research with the launch of a groundbreaking study called The Science of Smokeability (SOS). This multi-year research project, spearheaded by Custom Cones USA and the DaySavers brand in partnership with the Cannabis Research Coalition and The Network of Applied Pharmacognosy (NAP), aims to revolutionize our understanding of cannabis cultivation, processing and consumption.
Unlike previous research that primarily focused on things like cannabinoid percentages, the SOS study seeks to establish clear links between cultivation and manufacturing practices and the end-user experience. By doing so, it has the potential to transform product quality, consistency and safety across the industry.
A Comprehensive Approach
One of the most innovative aspects of the SOS study is its comprehensive approach. It combines controlled laboratory experiments with consumer research, creating a holistic view of the smoking experience. This methodology allows researchers to analyze various factors that influence cannabis quality, including mineral content, nutritional content (flushing), nitrosamines (potential carcinogens), moisture content, and their effects on ash color, smoke composition, and overall smoke quality.
On the lab side, the SOS will be led by conducted by qualified researchers from various organizations including The Cannabis Research Coalition (CRC), an academic cultivation research group that is developing advanced cultivation techniques aimed at optimizing yield and quality of medicinal cannabis, and The Network of Applied Pharmacognosy (NAP), a nonprofit organization focusing on providing quality cannabis materials and tracking the experience of users.
Dr. Allison Justice and Dr. Markus Roggen, two of the top researchers on the study are previously known for their groundbreaking work in exploring the color change of ash in cannabis smoking. The SOS study has also partnered with Controlled Chemistry, experts in cannabis smoke and inhalation studies for cannabis, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and methodologies.
“This cross-departmental research collaboration extends beyond mere acquisition of sustainable and profitable cultivation and post-harvest metrics; we are actively establishing the benchmarks for ensuring the highest standards in producing flower intended for combustion” said Justice, founder of the Cannabis Research Coalition.
To gain consumer insight, DaySavers will be paying 200 lucky people, drawn at random, to receive and smoke two pre-rolls and then provide feedback on the experience. That data will be combined with the lab work to create the final reports.
This unique and consumer-centric approach and focus on “smokeability” aligns with the industry’s growing focus on end-user satisfaction and, we hope, could lead to products that better meet consumer preferences.
Developing Standards
The first phase of findings is expected to be published in the coming months and will demonstrate how to optimize cultivation metrics to save time, money and resources while enhancing product quality.
The study will also include experiments on infused pre-rolls, testing different infusion processes and their effects on temperature and cannabinoid/terpene delivery.
We think the implications of this research for the cannabis industry will be far-reaching. By understanding how different cultivation and processing variables affect the final product, growers and manufacturers can fine-tune their practices to create superior cannabis products. This could lead to more consistent, higher-quality pre-rolls and other cannabis products in the market.
The findings from the SOS study will also be shared with ASTM International, an organization that establishes industry standards. The hope is that it leads to the development of new benchmarks for quality and safety in cannabis cultivation and product manufacturing. Moreover, by providing solid scientific data on cannabis smoke composition and quality, the study could influence cannabis policy decisions. This is particularly significant for states that are hesitant to permit smokable flower due to uncertainties about the substances produced in cannabis smoke.
For cultivators, the study could provide valuable insights into optimizing their growing techniques for better quality. Manufacturers could use the findings to improve their processing methods and create more appealing products. Retailers and budtenders could leverage the research to provide more informed recommendations to consumers.
Plus, the study’s focus on safety and quality could help address concerns about the health impacts of cannabis smoking. By identifying factors that contribute to a “safer” smoking experience, the industry could potentially mitigate some of the health risks associated with cannabis use.
At Custom Cones USA and DaySavers, we’re known for our commitment to transparency and the rigorous testing of our pre-rolled cones, as well as other products like blunt cones and the Smoke Temple Cross Cone, for pesticides, heavy metals and microbials. We do this, despite it not being required, because we believe it makes a better, safer final product for the end user. Our hope is that by focusing this study on “smokeability,” others in the industry will put the consumer first as well.
A New Kind of Study
The Science of Smokeability study marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of the cannabis industry. As the cannabis market continues to mature and evolve, research like the SOS study will be crucial in establishing cannabis as a legitimate, well-understood, and responsibly produced consumer product.
By bringing together scientific rigor, consumer experience and industry expertise, it has the potential to drive innovation, improve product quality, shape the future of cannabis cultivation and consumption.
The SOS promises to enhance our scientific understanding of cannabis as both a medicinal and recreational product, potentially revolutionizing how we approach cannabis cultivation, processing and consumption in the years to come.
Access the full recording of our insightful webinar, “Rescheduled Realities,” and explore the transformative impact of cannabis rescheduling to Schedule III on the manufacturing sector.
In this fifth installment of NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials multi-part webinar series, our expert Cannabis Manufacturing Committee delves into the major shifts and implications following the rescheduling of cannabis. This session provides invaluable insights and practical guidance to help your business adapt and excel in the evolving landscape.
Learning Objectives:
Future of Manufacturing Post-Rescheduling: Understand the anticipated changes and their impact on the industry.
GMP and Regulatory Requirements: Navigate the updated Good Manufacturing Practices and regulatory standards.
Focus on Extracts and Concentrates: Gain insights into the production and regulation of cannabis extracts and concentrates.
Impact of Big Pharma: Explore how the pharmaceutical industry’s involvement might influence manufacturing.
Best Practices for Non-Pharmaceutical Quality: Learn strategies to maintain high-quality standards in a non-pharmaceutical context.
This session is essential for cannabis manufacturers looking to navigate the upcoming changes, ensure compliance, and maintain high-quality production standards. Join us to stay informed and prepared for the future of cannabis manufacturing.
Why Watch?
Gain critical knowledge and practical tools to adapt to regulatory changes, enhance your manufacturing practices, and remain competitive in the market.
Watch Now to equip yourself with the insights needed to thrive in the new cannabis manufacturing landscape!
Committee Insights: Redefining Cannabis Marketing – Strategies for Success in a Schedule III Landscape
Access the full recording of our insightful webinar, “Redefining Cannabis Marketing,” and discover how to navigate the evolving landscape of cannabis marketing and advertising post-rescheduling.
In this pivotal episode, the Marketing & Advertising Committee collaborates with the State Regulations Committee to explore the potential impact of cannabis transitioning to Schedule III. This session addresses the new opportunities and challenges for businesses in the cannabis space, providing you with essential strategies for success.
What You’ll Learn:
New Regulatory Guidelines: Get up-to-date on the latest regulatory changes and their effects on cannabis marketing.
Innovative Marketing Strategies: Explore cutting-edge approaches to effectively engage your audience in a more flexible regulatory environment.
Compliance Best Practices: Understand how to stay compliant with evolving standards while optimizing your marketing efforts.
Hear from Our Expert Panelists:
Colton Griffin, CEO of Flourish Software
Valerie Taylor, Vice President (National Cannabis Practice Leader) at The Liberty Company Insurance Brokers
Joseph Smith, Partner at Thompson Hine
Patrick Toste, Co-Founder & Creative Director of HIGHOPES Design
Jen Lamboy, Director of Strategy at Hybrid Marketing
This webinar builds on our series examining tax implications, research, safety, and facility design in the new Schedule III era. Gain invaluable insights from industry leaders to ensure your business thrives amidst these regulatory shifts.
These industry leaders will share their expertise, providing invaluable insights to ensure your business thrives amidst regulatory changes.
Why Watch?
Stay ahead in the rapidly changing cannabis market with expert guidance on regulatory compliance and innovative marketing strategies.
Watch Now to equip yourself with the knowledge needed to excel in the new cannabis marketing landscape!
Member Blog: CBD When Pregnant
Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational or educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice or consultations with healthcare professionals.
If you’re pregnant or trying to conceive, you may have heard of the potential benefits of CBD during pregnancy. Alternatively, you may already take CBD oil regularly and are unsure whether you should continue. Here, the team at Goodray’s explores the latest information around CBD in pregnancy and whether it is a safe supplement during this time.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a natural compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce a high or any level of intoxication. CBD has become known for its therapeutic benefits, which include reducing anxiety and improving sleep. With these benefits, it’s clear why you might consider using it during pregnancy. However, it is crucial to understand the research around CBD before making a decision.
Is CBD Safe to Use During Pregnancy?
Currently, there is not enough research on CBD in pregnancy to determine whether it is a safe supplement. While research shows that CBD may have potential benefits for a range of medical conditions, its effects on fetal development and pregnancy are unknown.
Many healthcare professionals advise against using CBD during pregnancy due to this lack of research. If you are considering using CBD for the first time or continuing to use it, you should speak directly with your healthcare team. This allows you to make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances.
Potential Benefits of CBD During Pregnancy
CBD oil has many therapeutic benefits, particularly in stress and anxiety relief. During pregnancy, some mothers-to-be may experience heightened levels of anxiety and stress. CBD oil has the potential to treat anxiety and promote relaxation during this time.
Additionally, sleep issues are common during pregnancy, and CBD oil may help improve sleep quality. Some expectant mothers may find it difficult to get a good night’s sleep due to discomfort or hormonal changes. CBD’s calming properties might offer some relief and better sleep.
Despite these potential benefits, it’s important to remember that the research supporting the use of CBD during pregnancy is not yet available. Therefore, it is crucial to be mindful and consider whether it is the best choice for you.
Potential Risks of CBD During Pregnancy
Much like the benefits, the risks of using CBD during pregnancy are largely unknown. While there is no research to suggest that CBD causes any problems, there is also no research to the contrary. Some health professionals argue that CBD could potentially interact with other medications or supplements required during pregnancy, impacting fetal development.
Moreover, the quality and purity of CBD products can vary significantly. If not sourced from reputable places, CBD products can contain other substances, including THC or other cannabinoids, which you would not want to ingest while pregnant. Ensuring you source pure CBD oil should be a priority if you choose to use it.
Understanding the Research and Expert Opinions
The current body of research on CBD use during pregnancy is limited, and most studies are either in early stages or conducted on animals. This makes it challenging to draw definitive conclusions about the safety and efficacy of CBD for expectant mothers.
Healthcare professionals generally take a cautious approach due to the lack of comprehensive human studies. Organizations such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advise against the use of cannabis and its derivatives, including CBD, during pregnancy. This caution is primarily due to the potential unknowns and the precautionary principle of “first, do no harm.”
Consulting with Your Healthcare Provider
Given the uncertainties surrounding CBD use during pregnancy, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider. Your doctor can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current condition. They can also help monitor any potential interactions with other medications you may be taking.
If you and your healthcare provider decide that using CBD is appropriate, it’s crucial to source high-quality products from reputable suppliers. Look for products that have been third-party tested for purity and potency. Avoid products with additives, contaminants, or THC.
Alternatives to CBD for Managing Pregnancy Symptoms
If you are looking for natural ways to manage anxiety, stress, or sleep issues during pregnancy, there are several alternatives to consider:
Exercise: Regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga, can help reduce stress and improve sleep.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices like mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
Diet and Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can support overall well-being and help manage stress.
Herbal Teas: Some herbal teas, such as chamomile, can promote relaxation and improve sleep. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before trying new herbal remedies.
Support Networks: Building a support network of family, friends, or support groups can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation.
Final Thoughts
CBD oil is a natural product with potential therapeutic benefits, but whether you choose to take it during pregnancy is a personal decision. Given the lack of substantial research, it is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the unknown risks carefully.
Discussing your options with your healthcare team is the best way to make an informed decision that prioritizes your health and your baby’s well-being. Goodrays crafts and sells high-quality CBD oils and products designed to complement your lifestyle, free of any potentially harmful substances. However, it is crucial to ensure any CBD product you consider is sourced from a reputable provider and meets high standards of purity and quality.
In conclusion, while CBD may offer potential benefits, the safety of its use during pregnancy remains uncertain. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider and make choices that align with your health needs and pregnancy journey.
Committee Blog: Understanding the Nutritional Demands of Cannabis
The nutritional demands of cannabis are still not well understood. Due to the legal status of the plant, intense studies on cannabis nutrition have been limited. The subtleties of plant nutrition are not well understood, particularly in cannabis. Nickel was not recognized as a plant essential nutrient until 2004. The presence of a single micronutrient deficiency can decrease the production of fruit and some flowers in excess up 30%.
The Presence of Physical Symptoms
The physical symptoms of plant deficiencies and toxicities typically don’t manifest from anywhere between three and nine weeks. Usually, by the time these physical symptoms appear visually, the damage has already begun to occur. Physical symptoms of plant nutrition vary considerably and there’s substantial overlap between the visual characteristics of symptoms. Nutritional deficiencies can sometimes be caused by the toxicity of another element. For example, an excess of magnesium can inhibit the plants’ ability to uptake calcium.
The Importance of Soil and Growing Media
The soil/growing media used during the cultivation process can impact nutrient absorption in several ways, primarily depending on its physical and chemical characteristics. Cannabis prefers well-draining media with a pH range of 5.8-6.2. The pH of the media itself can enhance or reduce the plants’ ability to absorb certain nutrients. For example, iron becomes decreasingly soluble at higher pH levels. The drainage of the media is highly dependent on the growing style and environment, but generally, a well-draining growing media allows for healthy roots and maximum nutrient absorption. The media acts as a sort of nutrient reservoir for the plant’s roots.
Leaf Tissue Analysis
Leaf tissue analysis has been a long-utilized tool in traditional agriculture. Its presence in cannabis is limited primarily due to the long-standing illegality of the plant. However, there has been major interest recently in using this tool in cannabis cultivation. The basic premise is that fan leaves are removed from the plant, dried to completion, and analyzed at an analytical laboratory for primary, secondary, and micronutrients. One of the main advantages of this is the guesswork is taken out of the identification of the toxicity or deficiency. Visual symptoms of toxicities and deficiencies can have overlapping visual cues. The nutritional issues may be far more complex than an issue with a single element. By having empirical data, it allows the cultivator to compare the analytical results to established target values. From there, the cultivator can adjust the fertilization program to mitigate any potential toxicities or deficiencies. Regular monitoring of nutrient levels allows for proactive adjustments of the fertilization program. This, in turn, can lead to optimization of quality and yield.
Fertilizer
Fertilization is one of the most important aspects of any cultivation. A dialed in nutrient program optimizes the speed of growth, quality of the product, and overall yields. Fertilization can be a complex puzzle and no two cultivators grow in the exact same way. By analyzing the fertilizer, nutrient solution, plant tissue, water, and growing media the cultivator can trace back to the source of any potential issue. A common issue in cannabis cultivation is iron deficiency, this can be caused by an excess of manganese as cannabis will selectively absorb manganese over iron. The iron levels may be completely sufficient in the nutrient solution, but the excess manganese mitigates absorption. A typical response to an iron deficiency would be to add more iron, by using plant tissue and nutrient data, it can be discerned that the solution to the problem is a reduction in manganese and not the addition of more iron.
Water
Water quality is one of the foundations to successful cannabis cultivation. Testing water prior to planting and throughout the growing season can help prevent issues before they occur. If the source water for the nutrient solution originates from a well, it is important to understand the mineral content of the water so that fertilization can be adjusted accordingly. If the water is filtered, it is a useful tool to monitor the life of the filters. As reverse osmosis (the most common type of filtration used in cannabis cultivation) filters age, the boron concentration in the filtered water begins to rise considerably. In addition to this, the presence of excess chlorine or chloramine can create issues with nutrient absorption.
Environmental Conditions
Environmental conditions play a significant role in nutrient absorption and overall plant health. Nutrient levels can be optimized in the fertilizer solution, but environmental effects can prevent optimized nutrient absorption. Humidity, temperature, light, CO2, etc. can all greatly impact the plants’ ability to uptake nutrients. Optimization of these conditions is critical to a successful cultivation.
Conclusion
While the nutritional demands of cannabis are still not fully understood, leaf tissue, water, soil, and fertilizer analysis can assist immensely in the identification and mitigation of nutritional deficiencies and toxicities. These tools allow cultivators to make data driven decisions and prevent issues before they occur. Optimizing nutritional levels in cannabis maximizes the quality and yield of the plants.
Member Blog: Impact of Cannabis on Sleep Medication Use
Last year, Management Science Associates (MSA) partnered with Vireo Health of Minnesota to complete a first of its kind study that sought to analyze the relationship between opioid reduction and cannabis consumption (you can find more information on those findings in our previous post).
More recently, MSA has been exploring the impact of cannabis on sleep medication use. An estimated 30% of adults experience symptoms of insomnia, which can include difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early. Patients with insomnia often rely on various prescription and/or over the counter sleep aids to manage their conditions, which can result in adverse effects, including the risk of abuse and cognitive impairment, especially in older adults. Fortunately, the increased acceptance of medical cannabis has resulted in many patients exploring it as a potential alternative.
Although previous studies have shed light on the impact of cannabis for insomnia, more research is needed to fully understand its potential and determine appropriate dosages and long-term effects. Using real-world data, MSA has conducted a study on patients diagnosed with insomnia to investigate the effectiveness of medical cannabis to reduce sleep medication use.
Methodology
The study included adults aged 18 and over, diagnosed with insomnia disorders based on ICD-10 codes, who have purchased cannabis products through medical cannabis dispensaries in Minnesota from 2016 to 2020. Using MSA’s patented de-identification technology, we linked each patient’s electronic health records (EHRs) with medical cannabis dispensary transaction records while protecting patient privacy.
We investigated the trends of cannabis products use in patients with insomnia, according to demographics, and quantified changes in sleep medication use over time, using the Defined Daily Dose (DDD) established by the World Health Organization (WHO) to obtain a ratio that reflects the patient’s daily medication intake in a standard measure. We analyzed the differences in medication use before and after cannabis use, and characterized the patients who experienced a reduction in sleep medication use.
Key findings included:
Demographics: The majority of insomnia patients participating in our study fall within the middle-aged bracket. Almost 50% of the participants were aged 35-50 years, closely followed by 44.4% within the 51-64 year age group.
Decrease in sleep medication usage: Our results showed an overall 26.7% decrease in the defined daily dose (DDD) ofsleep medications after cannabis use. Patients using cannabis experienced notable decreases in sleep medication use, with the most substantial improvements seen in individuals aged 50 and older. Specifically, those over 65 years old saw a dramatic 60% reduction. Meanwhile, the 51-64 age group benefited from a 39% reduction, and those aged 35-50 observed a 25% decrease. Patients 35-50 years old were using higher doses of Sleep medications than other age groups. Patients over 65 years old exhibited a more pronounced reduction in DDD ratios compared to other age groups. This suggests that older patients might benefit more significantly from cannabis use in terms of reducing their sleep medication intake.
Percentage Reduction of sleep medication by age category
Reduction by THC:CBD ratio: Although most patients with insomnia in this study were using cannabis products with a ratio of 19:1, the THC:CBD ratios that were most effective to reduce sleep medication use were 4:1. 20:1, and 1:1.
Reduction by Type of sleep medication: In our analysis, we observed a significant reduction in the use of various sleep medications among patients who began using cannabis, with benzodiazepines showing a particularly notable decrease of approximately 50% of the daily dose. The group of patients that experienced a reduction of sleep medication during cannabis use were mostly using Benzodiazepines, among which the most used were Alprazolam, Lorazepam, Diazepam, and Clonazepam.
Product Form and Reduction of Sleep Medication: Patients who were using cannabis in capsules experienced the most reduction in sleep medication use. Capsules can have a high bioavailability, meaning more cannabis enters the bloodstream compared to tablets, which could make them more effective. Gummies were most used by patients using high dosages of sleep medications at baseline.
Milligrams of THC: Cannabis products with higher amount of mg of THC were corelated with higher daily dose of sleep medications. This supports previous literature about the effect of THC on insomnia, where lower contents of THC being most effective to alleviate insomnia are reported.
Conclusion
These preliminary findings suggest that cannabis has the potential to significantly reduce the use of traditional sleep medications, particularly among older adults. The preference for specific forms of cannabis in patients using high doses of sleep medications, and a higher effectiveness of capsules in reducing its use highlights important considerations for patient preferences and adherence. As MSA continues this research, we aim to further elucidate the mechanisms behind these trends and refine our understanding of how cannabis can be optimized for managing insomnia and sleep disturbances.
Additionally, MSA aims to support the development of comprehensive guidelines to help clinicians incorporate cannabis safely into insomnia treatment plans. A high-level of evidence from real-world data can help regulatory bodies to update policies based on the latest research and implement educational programs for both healthcare providers and patients about the safe use of cannabis for sleep disorders.
If you are interested in learning more or getting involved with MSA by being a prominent leader in cannabis research, we’d love to hear from you. You can reach out to Madeline Grant at mgrant@msa.com to schedule an introductory call.
Committee Blog: Time to Hire
The road to opening a licensed cannabis business is a long one. You have managed to navigate through a competitive and complex licensing process. You have convinced your local community to give your company a shot. You have beautified the area surrounding your business. You have secured your supply chain, and you even opened a special account at a cannabis bank to deposit all that cash. You have hired armed security, and even though you are paying the company 3X what you’re making, it’s okay because you and your staff are safe. You even survived the facility build-out, and hopefully, you have about six months of capital. What an accomplishment. Bravo! You did it! Wait… you need a team to help you operate this beast. Time to hire!
I heard someone say, ‘Great things in business are never done by one person. They’re done by a team of people.’ I would guess that if you have made it to the finish line, you’re likely to already have a team. Now it’s time to expand that team. As if the odds aren’t already stacked, in the fast-paced world of cannabis retail, turnover rates are hitting a staggering 55% within a year, per headset.io as of November 2023. I learned about this very early on when I began my research. I needed to know why and what I could do to avoid more than half my staff quitting within the first year. There were some common factors that led to employee attrition. I was a bit surprised to hear that pay wasn’t a top factor. What I learned was budtenders, in particular, didn’t feel the company provided any kind of staff development. Many instances described a poor management staff, and many felt unappreciated and overworked.
When we started this thing, it was important to make sure we could create opportunities for others. I’ve worked for both big and small businesses, some corporate and some non-corporate. I have had some good managers and some bad ones. I learned something from each job I’ve held. I vowed to make sure my staff never looked at our managers and our company and put us in the bad category. Trust is earned, and leadership can never be forced. I opened doors on April 22nd, and we hired 21 part-time employees. I will follow up in 12 months to see if I beat the odds. I’ve done it before.
It was through the NCIA network I met Carlo, and he had me go through a workshop. What I learned was, first, we needed to ask ourselves: What are our principles at Banyan Tree? My team is amazing, and we have been together so long we trust in each other’s expertise to maintain a harmonious environment. We want to make sure the staff feels the same way. So collectively, we created a list of principles. Next, we posted the job position. The response was overwhelming. Within 24 hours, we had close to 500 applications. We narrowed that down to 50. We scored the candidates based on their work experience and the video response they provided, aligning with our principles. Next, we scheduled the interviews. We called each candidate to share what they could expect during the interview. We sent them the list of our principles. We would be conducting the interview using the S.T.A.R. method: Specific, Task, Action, Result. That means the questions we ask will all be related to their work experience. We expect the answers you give to describe an experience that uses the S.T.A.R method response. It really helps us get to know the candidates during the interview, and you can tell someone is being genuine when they can recall an experience they had while working at previous jobs. There were about 21 of those interviews that went on for a full hour. We hired 21 amazing people. They all feel like they are part of something special. It’s my job to keep my promise.
It’s important to continue developing and educating the staff to help them get better at their skill. It is necessary to provide them with the tools they need to perform their job. Stuff like scanners and POS systems and card readers need to work. Technical issues disrupt the flow, but that’s controllable. Communication and trust are key. Without it, you’re doomed. Appreciation and praise go a long way. We need customers to stay in business, but we can’t do business without staff. My philosophy is that my employees are everything. As long as they love their job, our guests are going to reap the benefits.
Taking the Long View – Strategic Facility Design Considerations for the Schedule III Era
In the dynamic landscape of the cannabis industry, regulatory changes can significantly impact how businesses operate and plan for growth. The recent proposal to reschedule cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III has sparked discussions across the industry, particularly regarding facility design and operational strategies. This blog dives into key insights from the National Cannabis Industry Association’s webinar on “Taking the Long View – Strategic Facility Design Considerations for the Schedule III Era,” highlighting expert advice and practical recommendations for stakeholders navigating these changes.
The webinar, hosted by Brian Gilbert of the NCIA, served as a crucial platform for industry professionals to explore the implications of cannabis rescheduling on facility design and operations. The session focused on four main pillars: understanding tax changes, enhancing operational efficiency, promoting sustainable growth, and implementing practical strategies to navigate regulatory shifts.
Key Takeaways
1. Policy and Tax Implications
The discussion, led by Shawn Cooney of Cloud Farming, Chair of NCIA’s Facilities Design Committee, underscored the potential financial benefits for businesses following cannabis rescheduling (00:03:41). A highlight was the exploration of Section 280E, which could offer substantial tax savings once regulatory changes are implemented. Jeremy Schlicher of Urban Green Design expanded on these insights, offering strategic financial planning advice aimed at leveraging tax incentives to reinvest in facility improvements (00:07:21).
2. Operational Efficiency and Sustainability
Efficiency in energy management emerged as a critical theme throughout the webinar. Experts emphasized the importance of conducting energy audits and adopting efficient lighting and HVAC systems (00:10:18). These measures not only reduce operational costs but also align with sustainability goals crucial for long-term viability in the industry. Practical recommendations tailored to cultivation, manufacturing, and retail sectors were discussed to optimize workflow efficiencies and regulatory compliance (00:15:10).
3. Cultivation Methods and Environmental Considerations
Kim Kannapel of Modern Thermal Design provided invaluable insights into cultivation methods and environmental sustainability. The webinar highlighted the viability of various methods—indoor, greenhouse, and outdoor—each catering to different market segments and regulatory landscapes. The discussion underscored the role of climate and local regulations in shaping cultivation decisions (00:37:28), emphasizing the need for adaptable strategies that prioritize energy efficiency and environmental stewardship.
As Chair of NCIA’s Facility Design Committee, Shawn Cooney brought deep regulatory expertise to the discussion. He emphasized the importance of holistic sustainability practices and compliance with evolving regulatory frameworks. His insights into tax implications and strategic planning resonated with participants seeking clarity on financial strategies post-rescheduling (00:25:32).
Kim Kannapel’s contributions focused on environmental sustainability within cannabis cultivation. Her expertise in optimizing cultivation methods highlighted the interconnectedness of environmental stewardship and operational efficiency. By advocating for adaptive strategies, Kim encouraged businesses to consider long-term environmental impacts when designing and expanding their facilities (00:37:28).
A staunch advocate for the innovative triple bottom line approach, Jeremy Schlicher brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion on strategic facility design in the cannabis industry. He emphasizes the integration of economic prosperity, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility in every aspect of facility planning and operations. Jeremy’s insights into maximizing operational efficiency through sustainable practices, such as energy audits and efficient HVAC systems, underscore his commitment to reducing environmental impact while enhancing business profitability.
Importance of Participating in the Public Comment Period
Participating in the public comment period is crucial for shaping the future regulatory landscape of the cannabis industry. The Department of Justice’s proposal to reschedule cannabis presents a unique opportunity for stakeholders to voice their perspectives and influence policy decisions. NCIA has launched a dedicated tool to streamline this process, making it easier for industry professionals to submit informed comments.Submit your comment here.
Recap of Episode I & II
Episode I: Understanding Section 280E and its Impact on Cannabis Businesses
In Episode I, the focus was on the financial and tax implications of rescheduling cannabis. Section 280E was a major topic, with discussions centered on how the rescheduling could lead to significant tax savings and the importance of strategic financial planning for businesses to maximize these benefits.
Episode II: Cannabis Rescheduling’s Impact on Research and Safety
Episode II delved into the implications of cannabis rescheduling on research and safety protocols. This session emphasized the potential for increased research opportunities and the necessity for businesses to stay ahead of regulatory changes to maintain compliance and ensure product safety.
Looking Ahead: Preview of Episodes 4 & 5
Episode IV: Navigating Insurance and Risk Management in the Schedule III Era
Join us for the fourth episode of NCIA’s multi-part #IndustryEssentials webinar series, “Navigating Insurance and Risk Management in the Schedule III Era,” led by our Risk Management & Insurance Committee. This session delves into the evolving landscape of cannabis insurance and risk management, highlighting the opportunities and challenges presented by the rescheduling of cannabis to Schedule III.
Date: Tuesday, July 9th, 2024 Time: 3:00 PM EST – 4:00 PM ET
Episode V: Cannabis Manufacturing in the Schedule III Era
Building on the insights from our first four episodes, join us for the fifth installment of NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials multi-part webinar series. This session, led by our expert Cannabis Manufacturing Committee, will focus on the profound impacts and implications of rescheduling cannabis on the manufacturing sector. As we navigate these unprecedented changes, our panel of industry leaders will provide critical insights and practical guidance to help your business adapt and thrive in this new landscape.
Advancing the Industry Together: NCIA’s Mission in Action
The overarching theme of this series is to equip cannabis industry stakeholders with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate the complex landscape of regulatory changes. By understanding the financial, operational, and research implications of cannabis rescheduling, businesses can better position themselves for sustainable growth and success. Each episode builds on the previous one, creating a comprehensive resource for industry professionals to stay informed and proactive in their planning and operations.
The webinar “Taking the Long View – Strategic Facility Design Considerations for the Schedule III Era,” offered a comprehensive roadmap for stakeholders navigating regulatory changes in the cannabis industry. By addressing tax implications, promoting operational efficiency, and advocating for sustainable growth practices, the session equipped participants with actionable strategies to thrive amidst evolving regulatory landscapes.
Call to Action
As the industry continues to evolve, staying informed and proactive is crucial for cannabis businesses. Explore NCIA’s resources, including upcoming webinars and educational materials, to deepen your understanding of regulatory changes and strategic facility design considerations. Engage with industry peers and experts to share insights and best practices that drive sustainable growth and operational excellence.
For those not yet members, consider joining the National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA) to unlock unmatched benefits, resources, and access. Membership provides exclusive opportunities to influence industry standards, gain regulatory insights, and network with industry leaders. Join NCIA today to leverage these benefits and stay ahead in the competitive cannabis market.
Committee Blog: Regulations in the Inhalable Cannabis Space – A Call for Sensible Flavor Regulation for Cannabis Vapes
As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, so do the discussions around regulations, particularly concerning flavor additives in inhalable cannabis products. This blog post represents the members of NCIA’s State Regulations Committee current reflections on the successes and shortcomings of existing cannabis vape regulations, focusing on flavor limitations, safety considerations, quality specifications, and labeling practices. While technical, this topic has a tremendous impact on cannabis brands and consumer safety.
First, for those who might question the need to add flavors to cannabis vapes, it’s essential to highlight the following points regarding why flavors are added and the benefits they bring:
Restoration
In some cases, such as with cannabis distillates, processing or manufacturing techniques can alter or remove natural cannabis flavors from vape liquids. Adding cannabis flavors back simply returns the final product back to nature’s intended taste profile, providing consumers with a comprehensive vaping experience.
Mimicking Smoking Sensation
For individuals transitioning from traditional smoking to vaping, flavors can mimic the sensations and tastes they are accustomed to, making the switch more enjoyable and satisfying.
Customizing Preferences
Consumers have diverse preferences, and adding flavors allows them to customize their vaping experience based on their personal taste preferences, whether they prefer fruity profiles or classic cannabis flavors. Akin to aromatherapy, consumers may also predict the mood impression they will experience by vaping a particular flavor.
Providing Consistency
Consumers often expect certain flavors in products based on their product familiarity so it is important for brands to be able to deliver a consistent vaping experience wherever their product is sold despite changes that the consumer may otherwise notice due to harvesting variability of the cannabis or limitations on strain availability across borders.
Meeting Market Demands
The vape industry is driven by consumer demand for a wide variety of flavors. Adding flavors allows vape manufacturers to meet market demands and cater to the preferences of different consumer segments. In regions where certain flavors are restricted or banned due to regulation, the legal vape industry is challenged to compete with the illicit market, where flavors would continue to be available. However, these illicit market alternatives may not undergo the same safety and quality standards as legal vape products, potentially posing risks to consumers’ health. By offering a wide range of flavors, the legal vape industry can provide consumers with safer alternatives and help combat the proliferation of potentially unsafe, unregulated products.
Personal taste aside, the dangers of unsafe flavors in unregulated products are real, as was demonstrated in 2019 through cases of EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping Associated Lung Injury). As detailed in this piece, manufacturers need to follow best practices to protect vaping consumers no matter if they are in regulated cannabis, unregulated cannabis, or the CBD/hemp markets.
Flavor Limitations
Overall, the addition of flavors to cannabis vapes is not just about enhancing taste but also about meeting consumer expectations and improving consumer safety. Flavors create consistency in products and are common across consumer products we already enjoy daily. Consumers are trained to expect flavor variety and consistency in traditional e-cigarettes, and cannabis vapes should be no different.
What’s Working?
We commend states like Oregon for taking a pragmatic approach by allowing a broad range of natural, artificial, and cannabis-specific flavoring ingredients while rightly prohibiting scientifically known inhalation hazards. This approach provides broad room for innovation while protecting the public from valid safety risks.
What’s Not Working?
Conversely, restrictions on flavor ingredients to only natural sources, as seen in states like Nevada, California, and New York, are unnecessarily limiting and not scientifically justified. Further limiting flavoring terpenes to being cannabis or hemp-derived, like in Connecticut, also hinders creativity, imposes higher costs, and potentially pushes consumers towards unregulated alternatives. Likewise, enforcement actions to prevent adolescent access to vapes should be prioritized over regulations to limit flavors or labels thought to be more appealing to adolescents.
Safe Flavors
Everyone’s goal should be to provide consumers with the safest possible experience when using inhalable products containing flavors. What’s safe to eat isn’t always safe to inhale.
What’s Working?
Responsible suppliers implementing robust quality and regulatory pre-qualification measures for all flavor ingredients is a positive step. Vendors should be vetted, approved, and responsible for the products they supply. Encouraging manufacturers to develop comprehensive toxicological programs tailored for inhalation safety is also crucial.
What’s Not Working?
Requiring flavors or flavor ingredients to be listed on the pharmaceutical FDA IID for inhalation is inappropriate and does not guarantee a safer flavor. The only reason flavors or flavor ingredients may be in the FDA IID is because they already exist in pharmaceutical products that went through a safety review process. However, the flavors themselves haven’t been evaluated independently for inhalation safety (emphasis added).
Instead of mandating a specific database of flavors, it’s more appropriate to regulate the process of sourcing and validating ingredients.
Quality Specifications
Once a desirable and suitable flavor has been identified, manufacturers need to understand how to maintain quality.
What’s Working?
Adhering to the approach of FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) for quality plans is best practice, ensuring hazards are identified and controlled by qualified individuals at each manufacturing stage.
What’s Not Working?
Overly broad testing requirements for non-cannabis-derived flavors or multi-ingredient cannabis products are redundant and economically unviable, particularly when hazards are effectively controlled through quality plans at earlier or later stages of a supply chain.
Labeling Practices
Finally, it’s important to examine how manufacturers should disclose when flavoring has been added to products. Consumers have a right to understand if a product is flavored.
What’s Working?
Simple, consumer-friendly labeling, such as using common terms like “Natural and Artificial Flavors,” aligns with other industry standards and will be recognized by the common consumer. Adopting labels familiar to the conventional Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry effectively bridges the gap between industries and aligns with how consumers already make these decisions across all products they buy.
What’s Not Working?
Listing the chemical names of all flavoring ingredients, as mandated in Oregon, New York and Missouri, is excessive and may confuse or intimidate consumers. Consumers are not qualified to assess risk from formula information. Unregulated products that do not list flavor ingredients may become more appealing to some consumers that are intimidated by the chemical names on the flavor label of the licensed product.
Recommendations
Having reasonable and consistent regulations across the country will help to create a safe and level playing field for manufacturers and brands to compete for consumer market share. While nuanced, these regulations materially impact the ability to bring a product to market or make a product economically viable.
Starting with flexible flavor definitions allows for a wide range of internationally recognized flavor ingredients, including natural, artificial, and cannabis-inspired isolates.
Banning known risks is common sense best practice. This process must be dynamic and listen to science. For example, Diacetyl, once a popular popcorn flavoring, was banned after research concluded it was unsafe for inhalation. A known, published inhalation hazard list is critical.
Implementing a safety certification policy based on thorough toxicological risk assessments specific to inhalation exposure ensures accountability.
Finally, adopting simple and recognizable labeling terms like “Natural and Artificial Flavors” and aligning allergen disclosures with established FDA and EU regulations make sense and protect intellectual property. We are advocating for consistency.
These effective regulations prioritize safety without stifling innovation or burdening stakeholders. We welcome ongoing dialogue and collaboration to develop pragmatic, science-based regulations that benefit consumers and the industry.
Cannabis Rescheduling Impact on Research and Safety: Insights from NCIA Webinar
In the second episode of NCIA’s new multi-part #IndustryEssentials webinar series, titled “Advancing Cannabis Science: Research Opportunities and Safety Post-Rescheduling,” we delved into the significant changes and opportunities that would emerge following the rescheduling of cannabis to a Schedule III drug. Led by NCIA’s Scientific Advisory Committee, this session provided a comprehensive overview of the cannabis rescheduling impact on research and safety in the evolving cannabis landscape.
Setting the Stage | Panelist & Moderator Introductions
The discussion began with an overview of the Controlled Substances Act and the historical context of cannabis scheduling. The panelists highlighted the journey from Schedule I to Schedule III, emphasizing the critical changes that come with this shift, particularly in terms of research opportunities and regulatory frameworks.
Cassin Coleman provided an in-depth explanation of the rescheduling process, focusing on the 8-factor analysis used to determine the appropriate schedule for a substance. This analysis includes factors such as the drug’s potential for abuse, scientific evidence of its pharmacological effects, and the current scientific knowledge regarding the substance.
The panelists explored the new landscape for researchers, discussing the relaxation of stringent requirements that previously hampered cannabis research. They highlighted the potential for increased federal funding, the ability to conduct more comprehensive studies, and the removal of barriers that have long impeded scientific progress in the field.
The conversation shifted to the practical implications for researchers and industry professionals. The panelists shared insights on how to prepare for the new opportunities afforded by rescheduling, including advice on setting up compliant research protocols and leveraging the new regulatory environment to advance scientific inquiry and innovation.
Kenya Alexander and Dr. Cynthia Shelby-Lane emphasized the importance of ensuring diverse representation in cannabis research. She discussed strategies to include underrepresented communities in studies and the critical need for research that addresses the unique needs and experiences of these populations. This part of the discussion further underscored the cannabis rescheduling impact on research and safety.
The panel addressed the broader social implications of cannabis rescheduling, particularly the need to heal the damage caused by the War on Drugs. They discussed the importance of bridging the communication gap between researchers and communities and ensuring that the benefits of cannabis research are equitably distributed.
Audience Q&A
The session included a robust Q&A segment, where the panelists answered a wide range of questions from the audience:
In their closing remarks, the panelists reiterated the importance of embracing the new opportunities presented by cannabis rescheduling. They encouraged researchers, product developers, and industry stakeholders to stay informed and proactive in adapting to these changes.
The session concluded with a heartfelt thanks to all participants and a reminder of the value of NCIA membership. By supporting the organization, members help drive critical reforms and advancements in the cannabis industry, ensuring a brighter future for all stakeholders.
This episode of NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinar series provided essential insights into cannabis rescheduling impact on research and consumer safety. As we navigate these changes, NCIA remains committed to supporting our members and advocating for a more inclusive, equitable, and scientifically advanced industry. Stay tuned for future episodes and continue to engage with our expert-led discussions.
Join us for Episode III, “Committee Insights: Taking the Long View – Strategic Facility Design Considerations for the Schedule III Era,” on Tuesday, June 18th at 3PM ET / 12PM PT. Experts from NCIA’s Facilities Design Committee will discuss the implications of cannabis rescheduling on facility design and operations, focusing on strategies for optimizing facility layout, equipment selection, and workflow management. Learn how to leverage tax changes and sustainability principles to enhance operational efficiency and ensure long-term viability. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights for your cannabis business. Register now!
Member Blog: Key Trends in the Cannabis Industry That Are Redefining Success
The cannabis industry is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Gone are the days when success was measured solely by the size of the buds. Today, innovative companies are redefining success by offering a diverse range of products, from mood-boosting gummies to pain-relieving lotions.
Science is also at the forefront, ensuring safe and consistent experiences through rigorous research. Not to mention, dispensaries are evolving into welcoming spaces staffed with knowledgeable professionals, enhancing customer experience.
Now, this industry is no longer just about getting high; it’s about providing safe, effective choices for everyone and making a positive impact on the world.
In this article, you’ll discover the exciting trends shaping the future of cannabis. We’ll delve into how product innovation, scientific advancements, customer-centric approaches, and social responsibility are driving this industry forward.
So, let’s dive in without any further ado!
The Rise of Cannabis-Infused Products
Customers are no longer restricted to smoking traditional cigarettes; instead, they may choose from a range of products that provide discretion and convenience.
Edibles that offer a safe and enjoyable method to consume cannabis, like baked products, chocolates, and gummies infused with CBD, have created new market niches. Drinks, which include coffee, tea, and even other party beverages, satisfy the needs of individuals seeking a refreshing and social substitute.
And for those looking for something new, there’s a distinctive selection CBD-based products like lotions, balms, and creams like those offered by Express Highs. These are becoming increasingly popular for their potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, appealing especially to those seeking targeted relief without psychoactive effects.
Legalization Of Cannabis Will Keep On Growing
North America has been at the forefront of legalizing cannabis, but now Europe, Latin America, and Asia-Pacific are also showing strong interest in its medical and recreational uses. These areas are changing their rules, and more people are accepting cannabis use.
In Europe, countries like Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands already have a strong market for medical cannabis. Luxembourg is on track to be the first in Europe to allow cannabis for fun. In Latin America, Uruguay and Colombia are moving forward with progressive cannabis laws, and Mexico has recently decided to manage both medical and fun uses of cannabis.
So, we can say that businesses that can handle complex laws and meet the needs of different customers are likely to succeed in this fast-growing global market.
The Evolution of Medical Cannabis
Medical cannabis is increasingly recognized for its therapeutic benefits, helping treat conditions like chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and anxiety. As its acceptance grows, more healthcare professionals are recommending it as a treatment option.
One significant trend is the development of cannabis-based pharmaceuticals. Companies are conducting clinical trials to produce FDA-approved medications with consistent dosages. An example is Epidiolex, a CBD-based drug for severe epilepsy, showcasing the progress in the medical cannabis sector.
Additionally, microdosing is gaining popularity, where patients consume small amounts of cannabis to receive health benefits without the high. This approach is appealing to those seeking symptom relief while maintaining daily functionality. It has spurred the creation of low-dose edibles, tinctures, and capsules designed for medical use.
Sustainable Cannabis Cultivation Practices
As people become more aware of environmental issues, sustainable growing methods are becoming essential in the cannabis industry. Traditional methods often use a lot of energy and water, which can harm the environment. To address this problem, many cannabis growers are turning to eco-friendly practices like organic farming, using renewable energy, and recycling water.
Organic farming avoids harmful chemicals, producing cleaner and healthier plants. Growers are also using solar panels and wind turbines to reduce their use of non-renewable energy sources. Additionally, techniques like aquaponics and vertical farming are being adopted to make better use of space and resources.
More consumers prefer cannabis that is grown sustainably, leading businesses to adopt these green practices. By farming sustainably, businesses help the environment and boost their reputation and profits by attracting customers who care about the planet.
Technological Advancements in Cannabis
Technological advancements are revolutionizing the cannabis industry, enhancing how it’s cultivated, processed, and consumed. Innovative LED lighting systems now emulate natural sunlight, optimizing plant growth with less energy. Automated watering and climate control systems provide precise environmental conditions, improving plant health and yield. Robotics are also stepping in to handle repetitive tasks like trimming, which allows for more efficient production.
In extraction technology, methods like supercritical CO2 extraction are making waves by producing purer and more potent cannabis concentrates. Additionally, the emerging field of cannabinoid biosynthesis uses microorganisms to create cannabinoids, promising a future of more sustainable and cost-effective production.
For consumers, technology has introduced advanced vaporizers and dab rigs that offer precise dosing and better absorption. Nanoemulsions are improving the effectiveness of infused edibles and drinks, ensuring a quicker onset and a smoother experience.
On the retail front, online platforms now make it easier to browse and purchase cannabis products safely and legally, with sophisticated point-of-sale systems helping businesses stay compliant with regulations.
New technologies are transforming how cannabis is grown and used, ensuring higher quality and safer products while setting new industry standards.
The Final Word
The cannabis industry is ditching the “bigger, faster” mentality and embracing a new definition of success. Quality, innovation, and social equity are now top priorities. This shift fosters sustainable practices, caters to individual needs with targeted strains, and ensures inclusive participation.
So, why wait? Now is the time to embrace these trends and align with the new standards of success in the cannabis world.
Committee Blog: Harnessing the Potential of Partnership Between the Cannabis Industry and Academia
Although cannabis companies are limited in the scope of their business activities awaiting much needed descheduling, it hasn’t stopped the need for educating and preparing the cannabis workforce. For some states cannabis tax dollars are appropriated to education, violence prevention and workforce development and often developed through the lens of social equity. Ohio,Colorado, Illinois, and Michigan for example, each invest in cannabis literacy in some way. Cannabis programs such as Oaksterdam University offer learners certificates or degrees for every aspect of the supply chain. Departments shape cannabis curricula with the support of faculty members and subject matter experts from both the private and nonprofit sector. These diverse educators instruct to prepare employees to fill the expected 1.5 million to 1.75 million cannabis jobs by 2025 as estimated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Partnering with academia
Legacy growers and professionals from more mature markets like California and Colorado find themselves advising academic partners on the type of information most needed by the first generation of cannabis employees. Amanda Reiman, PhD MSW serves as the Chief Knowledge Officer for New Frontier Data and instructor of Implications of Legalization of Cannabis: Policy and Compliance for Excelsior University, she believes legacy knowledge, paired with academic research, will help address the gaps in knowledge created by prohibition.“For decades, academic institutions had to stay an arm’s length from cannabis due to its legality. Now, with state laws changing, it has opened up an opportunity not only for academic institutions to offer coursework to support the emerging industry, but to learn from those who have been growing and working with cannabis prior to legalization,” Reiman says.
Using the state laws as a baseline for cannabis literacy, programs structure certificates and degrees to prepare learners to understand the complexities of the cannabis industry. For cannabis businesses working with the academic sector is a way to keep the pulse on emerging local talent, remain aware of the effectiveness of educational approaches and in some instances, earn an income. Positioning your business in academic networks is best when it’s both mutually beneficial and ethical.
It is important to keep in mind that programs can lead to good-paying jobs for those who’ve suffered from the war on drugs and justice-impacted populations.
Some programs are of no cost to students, while others compensate students for their participation. Certifications and degrees however don’t ensure employment. Most importantly cannabis businesses providing subject matter expertise must also continue to learn how to have a favorable impact on student populations that require learning how to serve them best.
Teaching
When teaching cannabis student populations will vary. It is important to approach the various topics with a sensitivity to the historical injustices and disparities that have existed within the cannabis industry. Some students may have faced disproportionate barriers to entry into the industry due to systemic discrimination and lack of resources. Other students may have different experiences related to health and wellness that when discussing need to be facilitated with great diplomacy, discretion and protection of privacy.
Instructors must provide accurate and unbiased information about cannabis, but sourcing materials may be challenging. It is recommended to identify the most credible and accessible resources for courses.It is also important to acknowledge the potential for exploitation and exploitation of vulnerable communities in the cannabis industry, and to educate students on how to navigate these challenges and protect their rights.
“I came into cannabis from teaching urban ecology, urban agriculture and environmental justice concepts and I was quite familiar with learning and teaching novel concepts to diverse audiences. But what I noticed is that it was challenging for my peers. I had helped write our Illinois legislation and also had a professional cannabis network. Industry experts were invaluable for me to be successful in teaching this material and without those trusted peer mentors I doubt I would have been able to create meaningful coursework and identify high quality resources to do so,” shared Mila Marshall, PhD, NCIA Education Committee Chair.
Furthermore, it is crucial to empower social equity students to advocate for themselves and their communities within the cannabis industry. This may involve providing resources and support for networking, business development, and community engagement that are embedded in the course material and syllabi.
“Teaching is a skill above and beyond knowing the subject. For subject matter experts to be effective teachers, they should gain knowledge around differential learning styles, student engagement and effective communication,” shared Dr. Reiman. She contends that being a cannabis expert is only part of what is needed to be an effective teacher in the cannabis space. Overall, teaching cannabis with social equity students should be approached with an ethical and inclusive mindset, recognizing the unique challenges and opportunities that these students face in the industry. By promoting transparency, empowerment, and social responsibility, educators can help to foster a more equitable and just cannabis industry for all. Instructors play a key role in unlocking the potential of cannabis learners and there is a learning curve for instructors. Dr. Hemant Kumar has worked many years as a medical cannabis educator and is the Program Director of M.S. in Biotechnology and Office of Online Education and Expanded Programs at Morehouse School of Medicine. He has realized that it’s important to understand the student audiences and their level of knowledge of cannabis. He promotes remaining aware that academia is just as susceptible to the dynamic and fast paced nature of cannabis as an industry. “Scientists are globally publishing cannabis discoveries daily, shared Dr. Hemant. We see there also is a fast growing demand for business and entrepreneurial courses with potential for career pathways; manufacturing, tech start-ups, data analytics, marketing and even healthcare,” Dr.Kumar shared.
Advisory councils
Programs benefit from the strategic advice of cannabis businesses and social equity advocates. Advisory councils are often informal in nature and independent from state regulation oversight. Council members provide insight on everything from hiring of educational professionals to establishing events and bringing in additional resources to construct greenhouses or implement hands-on internships. Commitments can vary from a single semester to an entire year or more.
Academic Advisory councils provide feedback and direction for long-term goals and strategic planning. With cannabis more in the academic spotlight than ever, it is crucial we start developing programming and educational strategies to highlight cannabis career opportunities.
As cannabis is a continually evolving industry, there are opportunities for subject matter experts to collaborate with the academic community. The cannabis industry intersects with so many different aspects of the workforce that span multiple sectors and academic degrees. Yet there are often missed opportunities for securing talent from junior colleges, trade schools, and research universities.
Cannabis organizations’ presence at career fairs ideally should be used for visibility and awareness in the cannabis space. This allows future employees and the canna-curious an opportunity to view this industry as a legitimate career path with ample employment opportunities. It closes the communication and educational gaps and offers opportunities for subject matter experts to collaborate with the academic community.
Cannabis companies, like other industries, are part of our nation’s workforce. To normalize our booming industry, it’s important to spread awareness that the medical cannabis space is a thriving industry in need of graduates, interns, and talent from all walks of life, to help fill a myriad of different positions within the cannabis space.
Our industry is unique in that it encompasses so many different fields of study across such a vast range of subject matter. Educating academia is crucial to paving the way for research and the normalization of this industry. We must empower and support entrepreneurs and their communities by creating an equitable and sustainable cannabis industry. By aligning with academia, we unite with community and industry leaders to achieve cannabis normalization for our communities.
Start Making Sense: What Does Schedule III & Section 280E Mean for Me?
Rescheduling cannabis signifies a monumental shift for our industry, specifically presenting a potential pathway to alleviate the burdens imposed by Section 280E. In a new multi-part #IndustryEssentials webinar series, led by experts from our 14 member-led Committees, NCIA will provide a comprehensive analysis of the immediate and long-term impacts on different sectors within the cannabis industry.
In our debut session, led by the Banking & Financial Services Committee, we provided invaluable insights into the transformative implications of rescheduling cannabis to a Schedule III drug and its consequent impact on Section 280E of the Internal Revenue Code. In “Schedule III & Section 280E: What Does It Mean for Me?” broadcast LIVE on Thursday, May 30th, we explored the game-changing potential of this shift, offering actionable insights for businesses navigating the evolving regulatory environment.
Neil Rosenfield, CPA:Provided insights into the significance of comprehending and championing advocacy organizations to address regulatory hurdles.
Steven Gotsdiner, CPA: Illuminated accounting requirements tailored to cannabis businesses, drawing attention to the nuances across various states.
Eric Kaufman, COO: Shed light on the hurdles encountered by cannabis enterprises, while also elucidating the potential benefits stemming from regulatory changes.
Aaron Smith, NCIA: Emphasized the pivotal role of industry participation in policy reform endeavors, highlighting NCIA’s instrumental role.
Among the topics explored during the webinar was the profound impact of rescheduling cannabis on federal legality, state and local tax obligations, and the broader regulatory landscape. With cannabis poised to transition to Schedule III, businesses are poised to embrace newfound opportunities while confronting challenges inherent in navigating this regulatory terrain.
Neil Rosenfield of BakerTilly USA underscored the significance of contributing to and championing advocacy organizations to effectively address regulatory hurdles. Aaron Smith echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the pivotal role of industry participation in policy reform endeavors, highlighting NCIA’s instrumental role in spearheading these changes.
Another focal point of discussion revolved around the ramifications of rescheduling on tax obligations and deductions governed by Section 280E. The panelists provided invaluable insights into the implications for tax planning, including adjustments to tax bills, cash flows, and essential updates to accounting records and charts of accounts.
Steven Gotsdiner of HBK CPAs illuminated accounting requirements tailored to cannabis businesses, drawing attention to the nuances across various states. Eric Kaufman, COO of FundCanna, shed light on the hurdles encountered by cannabis enterprises, while also elucidating the potential benefits stemming from regulatory changes, such as managing surplus cash flows and preparing for shifts in interstate commerce.
Eric Kaufman explored whether rescheduling cannabis to Schedule III would reduce the cost of capital for operators and recommended strategies for deploying increased cash flows to scale and grow businesses effectively.
The webinar also delved into the anticipated timeline for these regulatory shifts, offering insights into potential implementation trajectories spanning from 2023 to 2025. Strategies for navigating diverse timelines and regulatory fluxes were discussed, equipping businesses with the tools needed to adapt and flourish in an ever-evolving landscape.
Thanks to the informed engagement of our audience members, a cornerstone of what makes our webinar series so valuable for members, the discussion touched on the definition of “Good Accounting Practices” and whether this includes Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). The panelists also speculated on the possibility of new excise taxes replacing 280E and the potential impacts on federal protections like bankruptcy and IPOs.
As the program was extended in order to answer all of our audience questions, the session concluded with insights into how these regulatory changes might affect the CBD and hemp industries. The panelists emphasized the importance of staying informed and adapting to varying state-level requirements.
As the cannabis industry continues its evolution, proactive engagement with regulatory changes remains paramount for business success. The insights shared during NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials webinar series offer a compass to navigate the labyrinth of regulatory complexities and position businesses for enduring prosperity. By fostering active engagement and advocacy, cannabis enterprises can shape a regulatory landscape conducive to industry growth and development.
To continue facilitating these crucial dialogues amongst operators, regulators, and stakeholders, NCIA relies on the support of dedicated members like you. Join NCIA today to access exclusive resources, stay informed about the latest industry developments, and be part of a community committed to driving positive change in the cannabis industry.
Supporting advocacy efforts is integral to driving meaningful change in the cannabis industry. By becoming an NCIA member, you’re not just investing in your business’s success; you’re also supporting initiatives that shape the future of the industry. Together, we can amplify our collective voice and effect tangible change.
As we conclude this recap of our insightful session on Schedule III and Section 280E, we’re thrilled to announce the next episode in NCIA’s #IndustryEssentials multi-part webinar series: “Committee Insights: Advancing Cannabis Science: Research Opportunities and Challenges Post-Rescheduling.” Led by our esteemed Scientific Advisory Committee, this episode promises to explore the exciting realm of scientific research and consumer safety in the wake of cannabis rescheduling.
Join us for an engaging discussion with industry experts, gain valuable insights, and shape the future of cannabis science and consumer safety. Register now to reserve your spot and be part of the conversation!
In any industry, whenever we try to optimize a process, the first step is to collect data to understand the dependencies and identify bottlenecks. In cultivation, we are still lagging behind, and we accept an average process loss of 10-20%. How can we change that?
Cannabis cultivators will lead this transformation in cultivation
Cultivating and growing plants to their full potential takes experience and specialized skills. Cannabis is no different, and many would argue, can be even more difficult to grow compared to other plants; that is because cannabis is cultivated for multiple reasons. The majority of people know that cannabis is grown for recreational and medicinal use. However, cannabis is also grown for its hemp fiber to create paper, clothing, biofuel, and food. Cannabis is an extremely fast-growing plant. The plant attracts and is susceptible to many pests, including several types of insects, fungus, and bacteria. Another challenge with cannabis is the fact that it has not been grown at scale or studied to the extent of other crops. The legal cannabis industry has only been around since 2012, when Colorado and Washington were the first states to legalize recreational use. Growing cannabis is basically like driving a race car for the first time without knowing the course ahead. Good luck. Wouldn’t you want to know more about your race car, your team, and the uniqueness of the track in order to navigate with precision and skill? That’s exactly why data is such a powerful asset in cultivation, especially for cannabis cultivators.
Switch from qualitative to quantitative data
A lot of stress, miscommunication, and conflict in cultivation operations are due to the subjective nature of data collection. We rely on humans to assess a crop’s state and remember it when comparing historic results. “It looks better than last time.” or “It looks good.” – imagine if you could rely on numbers when making such statements: “We have 10% larger flowers than last cycle” or “This cultivar stretched until day 25 compared to the other cultivar which stopped stretching around day 30”. These are statements that are easy to agree on and hard to challenge since they are objective facts.
Capture a comprehensive set of data
The other important aspect to know about data is that data becomes exponentially more valuable the more complete and comprehensive it is. If you are baking bread and you only measure the flour but not the salt, water, or yeast, there is not much value to this information. The question we need to answer is what data allows us to draw a comprehensive picture of a garden. What data do you need to remotely steer a crop and guide a team on the ground? Cultivators heavily rely on the visual feedback of plants when assessing plant health. Being able to see the plants will be key but also to get a sense of plant health in numbers to allow for quantitative comparisons. Obviously, measuring environmental parameters like air temperature, relative humidity, light intensity, and CO2 is key to operating a cultivation facility. One of the most critical parameters to optimize is the Leaf Vapor Pressure Deficit or Leaf VPD. It provides information on how the plant is transpiring and, thus, how efficiently it can grow. In order to calculate the Leaf VPD, one also needs to know the leaf temperature. Substrate properties are another key piece of the cultivation puzzle. Water content, EC, and pH are important factors to navigate. Finally, it is important to know if any pests, molds, fungus, or viruses are present in the environment. And other factors are obviously key to measuring and understanding when operating a cultivation facility, like airflow, power consumption, etc. The more data you can capture the better you can consistently bake and optimize your favorite bread.
Leverage automation and AI to capture and process the data
However, when collecting data we need to keep in mind that all environmental parameters affect the same plant and, thus, they are all intertwined – in general, changing one parameter requires the adjustment of all other parameters as well. At the same time, the impact of these decisions is often only assessed by looking at the final yield, which makes it impossible to derive what influence each decision had on the respective result. Like in many other fields, modern automation and artificial intelligence are fueling the transition to data-driven decision-making in cultivation. And Cannabis, as one of the highest margin crops, is at the forefront of this evolution. Automated, intelligent systems can monitor your crop 24/7, allowing you to focus on fixing the issues rather than identifying them. They can measure properties across the full canopy, which have not been accessible before, like leaf temperature, bud count, plant stress, pests, and other crucial factors. They enable your team to assess the garden and to discuss its state remotely as well as to compare historic data across growth cycles.
Investing in data collection means making more money
The lack of data obviously results in inconsistencies and even crop loss—in cannabis, the industry average is 15% crop loss. Translation: millions of dollars lost, which goes even higher the larger the facility. That’s a significant amount of revenue that is lost instead of being deployed in other areas for expansion or optimization. In a highly competitive industry, implementing features such as data collection to minimize crop loss and optimize yield pays off quickly and can play a huge factor in a business’s long-term success.
Access the full recording of our #IndustryEssentials webinar, “Committee Insights: Navigating Cultivation Environmental Requirements,” and gain critical knowledge on how to effectively navigate the environmental requirements for cannabis cultivation.
Environmental compliance is a significant challenge in the cannabis industry, with a wide range of regulations varying across states and local jurisdictions. This webinar dives deep into the complexities of environmental assessments, offering cannabis cultivators actionable insights and best practices to meet these stringent requirements.
Key Topics Covered:
Sediment and erosion control techniques
Innovative water conservation strategies
Energy efficiency and carbon footprint reduction
Wastewater discharge management
Air quality and odor control measures
Our panel of industry experts, including Lisa Wright, CEO of Flowra, Michael Busher of Deterra Farms, and Michael Erana, Co-Founder & Chairman of One Day Cannabis, share their experiences and strategies. Moderated by Chelsea Haskins, Director of State and Local Licensing at Perfect Union, this webinar equips cultivators with the tools needed to achieve environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance.
Why Watch? Gain the insights you need to enhance your cultivation practices, increase your chances of passing environmental reviews, and establish a more sustainable and responsible operation.
Watch Now and ensure your cultivation business stays ahead of environmental regulations!
Committee Blog: Unwrapping the Complexities – The Plastic Packaging Predicament
Written by: Karen Quinto, MS Environmental Science, Willow Industries
Balancing Protection, Sustainability, and Safety in the Packaging Industry
In 2012, child-resistant packaging legislation prevented access to children while the legal cannabis market began to open up but the issue persists over a decade later and the topic is still controversial to some.
“CR [Child-resistant] packaging on flower products makes no sense. On edibles sure, but flower? Not to mention that alcohol has no CR, and I’d argue is 100x more harmful to a kid who gets into it…. It feels like a piece of legislation to make regulators feel good about themselves but is a frustration to everyone else,” voiced Tyler Works on his LinkedIn page.
Works, the Director of Account Management for Cannabiz Media, is not alone on this sentiment. The delicate balance between protecting products and ensuring consumer safety is continuously challenged by concerns over its efficacy and common sense.
“When we worked on these rules, this was considered but it was more important to satisfy the minds of the people terrified of kids getting into cannabis,” chimed Gus Green, who helped states adopt the Code of Federal Regulations for the Poison Prevention Packaging Act due to cannabis being a Schedule 1 drug, therefore automatically deemed harmful to children. “Now is a better time to breach the subject. The Poison Prevention Packaging Act states that any product deemed toxic for a child under 5 years old should be in child- resistant, and senior-friendly packaging. I worked with state agencies around the country to adopt these. The rule is a bit more specific than that if you dive in though, it’s about the ability for a child to ingest a toxic amount within a specific timeframe…[For example] travel-size Listerine bottles are not always CR, but the large bottles are always CR.My specialty was child-resistant, or specialty packaging. Packaging specialists should be the ones rewriting these rules but I often see committee members with no background in the field attempting to write them.”
CFR 16 PART 1700 refers to Title 16, Part 1700 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), which specifically deals with Poison Prevention Packaging. This regulation focuses on the packaging requirements for substances that are potentially hazardous or poisonous, especially to children. The key objective is to prevent accidental ingestion by children and reduce the risk of poisoning incidents.
The regulation outlines standards and specifications for packaging design and labeling to ensure that products posing a poisoning risk are packaged in a way that makes it difficult for children to open or access the contents. This includes child-resistant closures and barriers to entry. The goal is to enhance the safety of household products, medications, and other substances that could be harmful if ingested by young children. Compliance with CFR 17 PART 1700 is essential to meet safety standards and protect consumers, particularly children, from accidental poisoning.
It seems straightforward enough but there are many problems inherent in adopting a rule that was not specifically made for the cannabis industry.
The Dose Makes the Poison
Works’ earlier sentiment is essentially that “the dose makes the poison”. This fundamental concept in toxicology states that any substance can be harmful in large quantities but may be safe at lower levels.
Proponents of this sentiment argue that cannabis flower contains THCA, which is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, meaning it does not produce the “high” associated with THC and cannabis use. THCA is a precursor to THC through decarboxylation, which converts THCA to THC with the application of heat, typically when it is smoked, vaporized or cooked. Therefore, ingestion of THCA is unlikely to cause intoxication in a child. Moreover, Works argued that requiring child-resistant packaging for THC flower is inconsistent with the treatment of other potentially harmful household items that are not subject to the same level of regulation, such as bottles of alcohol that do not require child-resistant packaging despite their inherent availability and quantity in a household.
Advocates for the deregulation of child-resistant packaging of flower might suggest that just like for alcohol, home environment control would suffice in controlling cannabis as a safety measure for children. Storing THC flower in an inaccessible location followed by strong educational measures urging parents to responsibly store and prohibit access could be effective in preventing accidental ingestion.
While these points are presented for the sake of argument, it’s important to reiterate that child-resistant packaging regulations are designed to prioritize child safety. The potential risks associated with accidental ingestion of THC or other substances are serious, and any discussion around exemptions should carefully consider the well-being of children. Public health and safety regulations are typically enacted with the aim of preventing harm and protecting vulnerable populations. But this is not the only issue people have in mind regarding packaging.
Child-resistant packaging for flower not only seems problematic because it is incongruent with regulations for other harmful household substances including alcohol but also because it creates trash. A lot of it.
The Single-Use Abuse
The Sustainable Cannabis Coalition estimated that in 2020, the US Cannabis Industry used almost one billion pieces of single-use plastic that mostly ended up in landfills. Research and testing activities–including those for the cannabis industry–adds up to over 12 billion pounds per year. The majority of these plastics cannot be recycled due to their diverse material composition. A whopping 40% of total emissions are attributed to our procured goods and services.
Packaging materials, particularly plastics, are composed of various substrates such as polyethylene, each with distinct properties. Sustainability concerns arise as certain laminated plastics prove difficult to recycle. Challenges persist, especially in the context of single-dose packaging and restrictions on child-resistant reclosable plastics.
“People want to recycle bioplastics but they don’t have good barrier properties,” Gus Green states. “There is also a problem with the idea of biodegradables because they are designed to break down. Biodegradable plastic is not allowed in child-resistant reclosable plastics because the mechanism will fail because the material is frail, but laminated plastics that have great barrier properties cannot be recycled.”
The Sustainable Cannabis Coalition blog announced that in 2021, CULTA, a cannabis company, partnered with The High 5 Initiative, a non-profit company that’s working to keep Polypropylene #5 plastics out of landfills through recycling. Patients can return packaging to CULTA, where the initiative team sorts and processes the materials, recycling over 95% and transforming #5 plastics into Post Consumer Resin (PCR) for manufacturing other products.
Despite the environmental benefits, transitioning to eco-friendly packaging faces challenges, including cost implications. For instance, CULTA notes that switching to eco-friendly cellulose packaging would increase costs, making it economically challenging for cannabis companies, coupled with perceived quality issues with thinner and more pliable cellulose bags (which may seem cheaper, thus impacting consumer acceptance).
The Future of Plastic Waste in Cannabis
New metalized child-resistant compostable cellulose film bags have entered the market for the first time and offer the opportunity for both home and industrial composting, including the cannabis industry.
“In Canada, Wyld has adopted child-resistant compostable pouches. Many edibles brands are moving to an inner-outer pack combo with individually-wrapped pieces inside a mother bag, similar to many traditional candies. Think caramels, Starburst, cough drops, Hershey’s Kisses, Reese’s cups, etc. – cannabis consumers want fresh products, and individual wraps accomplish that. To avoid more single-use plastics, NatureFlex is seeing significant, promising interest,” Elisha Hedin, a regional sales manager from Futamura, manufacturer of NatureFlex explained. “Compostable films can actually have a very good barrier and NatureFlex is an ideal packaging material for both gummies and flower. There’s a perception in the industry that compostable materials are low quality and that’s simply not true.”
Wyld, a Climate Neutral Certified brand, offers the cellulose-based packaging made from cellulose film laminated to a biosealant for their gummies. In home composting, this metalized compostable film degrades completely in 12-16 weeks. In industrial settings, it takes twice as fast to convert the cellulose into water, CO2, biomass, and mineral salts in just 6-8 weeks.
Meanwhile, in the research industry, Polycarbin has touted itself as the world’s only circular economy for single-use lab plastics. This California-based company helps labs achieve their sustainability goals by diverting these valuable materials from landfills and incinerators into the next generation of low-carbon lab products.
“Much like with food-tech and biotech, the cannabis industry is driven by a growing dependence on single-use plastics. From the harvest fields to the QC and QA laboratories, it is more important than ever that this industry consider the carbon footprint associated with its supply chain,” James O’Brien, CEO of Polycarbin emphasized. “Through responsible waste stream management and sustainable procurement, the cannabis laboratories can significantly attenuate the environmental impact of a major source of its scope three emissions—fossil fuel-derived, single-use plastics.”
As the packaging and research industry grapples with the complex interplay of material properties, sustainability challenges, and stringent safety standards, a delicate balance must be struck. Navigating the evolving landscape requires continuous innovation, collaboration, and adherence to regulations, ensuring that the packaging not only safeguards products but also contributes to a sustainable and secure future.
Committee Blog: A Guide to Navigating Cultivation Environmental Requirements
Navigating environmental requirements and reviews can be one of the most challenging and costly aspects of obtaining a cannabis cultivation license. Environmental standards and regulatory requirements differ from state to state and within local jurisdictions. While regulations may vary, cannabis operators encounter similar environmental requirements nationwide. Environmental reviews and impact assessments require an evaluation of cultivation policies and operations for sediment and erosion control, water usage, wastewater discharge, energy efficiency and carbon footprint, air quality, and odor control. This guide will aid operators in establishing the best practices for these environmental concerns to create a smoother environmental review process for the cultivator.
Sediment and Erosion Control
Sediment and erosion control methods are required for outdoor cultivation to ensure the facility has a comprehensive mitigation plan to prevent adverse effects the outdoor crop may cause to the land. Sediment controls are structural measures intended to complement and enhance the implemented erosion control practices and reduce any sediment discharge. Erosion control is a soil stabilization process consisting of mitigating measures to prevent soil particles from detaching and moving into stormwater runoff. Ensuring this compliance may include implementing Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Sediment and erosion control. These BMPs should be implemented before the onset of the rainy season, typically in October. Sediment and erosion control devices and measures should be replaced when they deteriorate.
Sediment Control BMPs
Silt fences
Fiber rolls
Hydroseeding
Sediment Trap
Inspect the trap on a routine schedule for litter and debris
Remove the sediment built up in the trap and sprinkle it lightly over vegetated areas to increase soil fertility
Gravel bag berms
Sandbag barriers
Straw bale barriers
Observation station on the property for visual monitoring of sediment pollution
Add gravel to dirt roads
Add stormwater detention basins
Erosion Control BMPs
Vegetative Swales & Buffers
Swales should be trimmed to prevent restriction of flow
Routinely monitor for any debris and overflow
Buffers should be added to the edges of parking lots and storage areas
Placement of straw mulch over disturbed land
Should be replaced often
Soil binders
Vegetation preservation
Vegetation replacement for any disturbed areas that will not be in use
Seed mixes containing native grass and wildflowers
Hydroseeding
Earth dikes
Waste Usage and Wastewater Discharge
Water usage and wastewater discharge management plans are required to ensure the cultivation facility legally and efficiently obtains its water and that no hazardous water is dumped onto the land surface, directly into the ground, or into another body of water where it could negatively impact the environment. Water usage may require obtaining documentation demonstrating you own the water rights to your facility or property. Cultivations connected to their municipalities’ water district may only need to report that information to meet this requirement. Such a facility may also need to contact its water provider to create a water rights letter showing the operator has the right to use that water. Cultivations that use other water supply methods, like wells, may need to provide a detailed report of their water quality and have well flow testing performed. Depending upon your state, you may also need to show how your water will be conserved. A cultivator may be required to create a water conservation plan detailing the procedures implemented at the cultivation site to conserve water. Wastewater discharging typically will require a cultivation site to apply for a Wastewater Discharge permit. Wastewater discharging plans that thoroughly explain how the cultivation will discharge any hazardous wastewater and what mitigating practices will be implemented to prevent wastewater from entering the environment untreated are also frequent requirements for this process.
Water Conservation Methods
Recycling irrigation systems
Automated irrigation systems
Precision emitters
Watering more frequently throughout the day in smaller amounts
Planting pots
Divert the dehumidifying and cooling system’s piping into a holding tank to reuse the water for irrigation
Use organic mulch around each plant to prevent moisture loss
Rainwater harvesting, if allowed in your area
Substrate sensors to monitor water saturation
Wastewater Discharge Measures
Using planting pots to prevent excess runoff
Vegetative swales and buffers to capture wastewater
Recycling irrigation systems with reverse osmosis and ultrafiltration or thermal evaporation
Recycling systems that don’t have a filtration system can hold any hazardous wastewater in a holding tank and have it transported to an approved wastewater treatment facility
Substrate sensors for the prevention of excess runoff
Stormwater runoff prevention
Store pesticides, chemicals, and fertilizers indoors and away from any outdoor growing areas and in approved containers
Covering wastebins
Divert stormwater away from any stockpiled materials
Energy Efficiency and Carbon Footprint
Cultivation energy efficiency and carbon footprint reporting are becoming more popular among regulators as the country moves toward environmentally friendly practices. Energy efficiency may require the cultivation site to comply with specific requirements for equipment and lighting. Many licensing bodies also require an energy efficiency plan that details what mitigating measures the operator will implement to reduce energy costs. Carbon footprint reporting may require greenhouse gas emission (GHG) reporting, which can require a cultivator to purchase carbon offsets. Green energy plans are sometimes required; these plans demonstrate how the cultivation will utilize green energy options to reduce their carbon footprint.
Energy Efficiency
LED lighting
Automated irrigation systems
Automated blackout curtains for greenhouses
On-site composting
Low-flow fixtures
Split ductless air condition
Chilled water systems for dehumidification
Modulating hot gas reheat forced air systems
Sensor motion lighting in rooms that aren’t frequently entered
Adjust lighting schedules based on the weather if using mixed-light
Installing solar panels
Request an energy efficiency review from your utility provider
Carbon Footprint
Sign up with a clean energy provider that partners with your utility company and reinvests the funds from the program into clean energy initiatives in your state
Avoid generation use wherever possible
Install renewable energy sources at your facility, like solar panels
Replace pesticides with biocontrols using predatory insects
Use recycled or biodegradable packaging, even for wholesale flower
Cultivate companion plants that deter pests and attract beneficial insects
Reduce or eliminate lighting requirements by establishing a greenhouse or outdoor cultivation facility
Air Quality and Odor Control
Air quality reviews may be triggered for cultivation facilities, including the requirement to obtain an air permit. Air permits allow an operator to release a limited amount of pollution within certain restrictions. Air quality reviews for cultivations are triggered by several factors based on the state requirements, some of which may include drying, processing, generator use, fugitive emissions, and pesticide application. If a cultivator is required to obtain an air permit, they will be licensed to perform those activities. Cultivations going through air quality reviews may need to provide an Air Quality Control Plan outlining the mitigation efforts the cultivator will make for air quality pollution. Odor Control Plans are one of the most common regulatory requirements for cannabis businesses. If your environmental review includes odor control and you operate an outdoor cultivation site, you may be required to conduct an odor control study on your facility. These studies use wind patterns to measure the distance the odor from your cultivation will travel. Based on your state or local jurisdiction’s requirements, an odor control study may require you to move the border of your canopy. Conversely, an odor control study may prove that your cultivation will not be a nuisance due to odor pollution, and no mitigating measures will be required. Odor control plans should detail precisely what mitigating measures the cultivator will implement and, if available, data on how effective those measures will be.
Air Quality Control Plans
Wetting the surface of dirt roads during the dry season
Encourage ride-share amongst your employees
Reduce VOCs wherever possible
This can include timing harvesting to reduce ozone impact
Include a chemical usage plan that describes how pesticides, fertilizers, and other agents will be stored and disposed of in alliance with the manufacturer’s recommendations
Detail how you will maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) on all chemicals at the facility
Odor Control Plans
Indoor cultivations and greenhouses can implement the following measures:
Use carbon filters
Explain in your plan how carbon filters work, provide data on their filtration rates, which you can locate in the manufacturer’s guide, and how often you will replace them
Use wet scrubbers for indoor cultivation or greenhouses
Explain how the air is treated when it passes through the scrubber
Implement biofiltration measures
Explain how the air will pass through soil, mulch, or other organic matter to filter the air
Use oxidization treatments through your facility’s ventilation system
Explain how the process of oxidization removes odor
Have open communication with your neighbors regarding odor
Explain how you will speak with your surrounding neighbors about any odor concerns and request your neighbors contact you if they do smell odor so you can begin an assessment into structural or equipment failures and, if needed, implement further mitigating measures to your plan
Outdoor cultivations can implement the following methods:
Hire a professional to do an odor study to prove your facility’s compliance
Plant fragrant flowers around the exterior of the site
Use oxidization treatments through high-pressure misting devices around your cultivation area
Explain how the process of oxidization removes odor
All cultivation types should have open communication with surrounding neighbors regarding odor
Explain how you will speak with your surrounding neighbors about any odor concerns and request your neighbors contact you if they do smell odor so you can begin an assessment into structural or equipment failures and, if needed, implement further mitigating measures to your plan
As regulatory requirements vary across the country, cultivators should carefully read their regulations and contact state and local departments for guidance on requirements specific to their operations. A thorough understanding of what plans must be created, studies performed, and special permits obtained will create a smooth environmental review process. Join the upcoming NCIA webinar from the Cannabis Cultivation Committee to dive deep with industry professionals on navigating environmental reviews across the United States.
Committee Blog: Discovering the Potency of Data – How Cannabis Brands Can Harness Audience Insights to Elevate Success
In the rapidly evolving landscape of the cannabis industry, understanding your audience is critical to staying ahead of the curve. For brands, this can be difficult given retailers hold the keys to their customer data. However, through the utilization of digital marketing, cannabis brands have the opportunity to glean invaluable insights from their audience data. In this comprehensive breakdown, we’ll explore how cannabis brands can leverage audience data from programmatic advertising, email campaigns, SEO and more to gain a deeper understanding of their customers and enhance their overall success.
The Power of Data in the Cannabis Industry
Data is the cornerstone of informed decision-making, and in the cannabis industry, with its regulatory restrictions and shifting consumer preferences, its importance cannot be overstated. By harnessing audience data from digital marketing campaigns, cannabis brands can move beyond conjecture and gain actionable insights into their customers’ behaviors, preferences, and needs.
Analyzing Audience Demographics
One of the primary benefits of digital marketing is the ability to gather detailed demographic information about your audience. Through tools like Google Analytics, social media insights, campaign reports, and customer relationship management (CRM) platforms, cannabis brands can paint a vivid picture of their customer base. From age and gender to location and interests, this demographic data provides invaluable insights into who your customers are and how best to engage with them.
Understanding Consumer Behavior
Beyond demographic data, digital marketing campaigns offer a window into consumer behavior. By tracking website traffic, engagement metrics, and conversion rates, cannabis brands can gain a deeper understanding of how customers interact with their brand online. This insight allows brands to identify trends, uncover pain points, and optimize their digital presence to better meet the needs of their audience.
Personalizing the Customer Experience
One of the most powerful applications of audience data is in personalizing the customer experience. By segmenting their audience based on demographic information, cannabis brands can tailor their messaging and offerings to resonate with individual customers. Whether through targeted email campaigns, customized product recommendations, or educational content, this level of personalization not only enhances the customer experience but also drives engagement and loyalty.
Optimizing Marketing Strategies
Audience data also serves as a compass for guiding marketing strategies in the cannabis industry. By analyzing the performance of various marketing channels, content types, and messaging approaches, brands can identify what resonates most with their audience and allocate resources accordingly. Whether it’s investing more heavily in content creation, refining digital advertising tactics, or experimenting with email campaigns, data-driven insights enable brands to optimize their marketing efforts for maximum impact.
Predicting Trends and Forecasting Demand
In addition to informing day-to-day marketing decisions, audience data can also provide valuable insights into larger industry trends and consumer preferences. By analyzing macro-level data trends across their customer base, cannabis brands can identify emerging market opportunities, anticipate shifts in demand, and stay ahead of the curve. Whether it’s launching new product lines, expanding into new geographic areas, or pivoting to meet evolving consumer needs, data-driven forecasting empowers brands to make informed strategic decisions.
Enhancing Product Development
Finally, audience data can play a pivotal role in shaping product development strategies within the cannabis industry. By soliciting feedback from customers through surveys, reviews, and social media interactions, brands can gain valuable insights into product satisfaction, preferences, and needs. This feedback loop not only informs the development of new products but also enables brands to refine existing offerings based on real-time customer input, ensuring that their products remain relevant and competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, audience data is a potent asset for cannabis brands seeking to unlock the full potential of their marketing efforts. By analyzing demographic information, understanding consumer behavior, personalizing the customer experience, optimizing marketing strategies, predicting trends, and enhancing product development, brands can gain a deeper understanding of their customers and elevate their overall success in the cannabis industry. As digital marketing opportunities continue to evolve, brands that harness the power of data will undoubtedly emerge as leaders in this dynamic and rapidly growing market.
Committee Insights: Dabinar – Dabbing 101
Access the full recording of our #IndustryEssentials webinar, “Dabinar – Dabbing 101,” and dive into the fascinating world of dabbing with insights from industry experts.
Whether you’re new to dabbing or looking to enhance your technique, this special edition webinar, presented by NCIA’s Cannabis Manufacturing Committee, is your go-to resource. Our expert panel from Summit Concentrates, MACH Technologies, Entourage Cannabis, and Tahoe Wellness Center breaks down everything you need to know about dabbing, from the basics to advanced techniques.
What You’ll Learn:
The fundamentals of dab rigs and concentrates
How to select the right equipment for your needs
Temperature control and dosage best practices
Advanced dabbing techniques and safety considerations
No matter your experience level, this webinar offers valuable insights to elevate your dabbing experience.
Why Watch?
Gain the knowledge and confidence to refine your skills, select the right products, and enjoy a safe and enjoyable dabbing experience.
Watch Now and take your dabbing to the next level with expert guidance!
Navigating the Cannabis Industry: Leveraging Data and News for Success
In the ever-evolving landscape of the cannabis industry, staying ahead of the curve is essential for businesses looking to thrive. With the National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA) providing exclusive access to valuable resources and partner discounts, entrepreneurs have a powerful toolkit at their disposal. In this blog, we’ll delve into the insights shared by industry experts during a recent NCIA #IndustryEssenitals webinar, focusing on the importance of leveraging data analytics and news aggregation to drive growth and navigate industry challenges.
Understanding Market Trends with New Frontier Data:
Amanda Reiman, an expert in data-driven decision-making, emphasized the critical role of market insights provided by New Frontier Data. She highlighted the significance of identifying trends, opportunities, and challenges within the cannabis industry. By leveraging data analytics, businesses can make strategic decisions to optimize marketing efforts, enhance product offerings, and improve overall performance. Exclusive member benefits offered by New Frontier Data provide NCIA members with access to invaluable resources, empowering them to stay ahead of the competition.
Driving Growth with Data-Backed Strategies and BDSA:
Lexie Barton expanded on Amanda’s insights by focusing on the practical applications of data analytics, particularly through BDSA. She discussed the importance of optimizing sales strategies and harnessing the power of data to inform product innovation, pricing strategies, and market expansion. By maximizing sales with BDSA’s insights, NCIA members can gain a competitive edge and drive business growth in a rapidly evolving market.
Meeting Information Needs with Cannabis NewsHub:
Samantha Hobbs shed light on the role of Cannabis NewsHub in meeting the information needs of cannabis businesses. By centralizing industry news and delivering tailored updates directly to businesses, Cannabis NewsHub streamlines the process of staying informed and ahead of industry developments. With access to the latest news and updates, businesses can anticipate challenges, identify opportunities, and adjust their strategies accordingly.
Optimizing Business Decision-Making with NCIA:
Aaron Smith, Co-Founder & CEO of NCIA, underscored the importance of leveraging professional resources and strategic partnerships to optimize business decision-making processes. He emphasized the value of NCIA membership in driving sustainable growth and success within the cannabis industry. By accessing exclusive partner discounts and resources, NCIA members can make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the insights shared by industry experts during the most recent NCIA #IndustryEssentials webinar highlight the critical role of data analytics and news aggregation in navigating the complexities of the cannabis industry. By leveraging tools provided by partners like New Frontier Data, BDSA, and Cannabis NewsHub, businesses can make informed decisions, identify growth opportunities, and stay ahead of the competition. Additionally, NCIA membership offers exclusive benefits and resources that further empower businesses to succeed in the dynamic cannabis market. Stay informed, stay ahead, and maximize your business potential with NCIA and its esteemed partners.
Ready to dive deeper into the world of cannabis industry insights? Be sure to watch the full recording of our webinar for a comprehensive look at leveraging data and news for success in this ever-evolving market. Click the link below to access the complete program and gain access to exclusive tips, strategies, and resources tailored specifically for cannabis businesses.
Call to Action:
Ready to leverage data and news for success in the cannabis industry? Join NCIA and gain access to exclusive partner discounts and resources. Strengthen your position in the industry and unlock the tools you need to thrive in the ever-evolving cannabis market. Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity to maximize your business potential with NCIA and its esteemed partners.
Member Blog: Colorado’s Evolving Cannabis Testing Regulations
Among the first two states to legalize and the first market to open, Colorado has had adult-use cannabis regulations in place for more than a decade now and helped set a standard for all the programs that came after it.
But Colorado’s testing regiment, like the industry, is ever evolving, with the state testing for additional pesticides beginning this year, for example. In addition, the state’s new “reduced testing allowance” could make the whole process easier for manufacturers in good standing.
Like many states, Colorado requires testing of the final product, be it flower, edible or pre-roll, which means not only must your flower be clean, but everything else you put into your products as well. In the case of pre-rolls, that means the paper used in the pre-rolled cones, as well as the filter tip.
The “big four” heavy metals (arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury); and
Cannabinoid potency.
WATER ACTIVITY
Like every state, Colorado testing requires laboratories check for water activity because high amounts of moisture can create an environment with the potential for mold growth.
Any water activity above 0.70 Aw creates the conditions for mold to grow, which can be harmful if consumed, which is why Colorado caps water activity at 0.65 Aw in flower and pre-rolls.
PESTICIDES AND SOLVENTS
Colorado also requires testing for residual pesticides and other chemicals and has been slowly ramping up its required pesticide testing.
For example, on January 1, 2023, the state tested for a total of 13 different pesticides. By July 1, 2023, that number had increased to 28. But new regulations going into effect this year drastically increase that number.
Beginning July 1, 2024, state law requires labs to test cannabis products, including completed pre-rolls, for 99 different pesticides, each with their own actionable limits that can cause a whole batch to be destroyed.
Additionally, the state requires cannabis concentrate products, including those used in infused pre-rolls that combine flower with a concentrate for increased potency and flavor, to be tested for residual solvents.
The state requires testing and provides actionable limits for 13 specific solvents that can be used to make extracts and concentrates, as well as requiring “none detected” for “any other solvent not permitted for use.”
HEAVY METALS
The Centennial State also requires testing for the heavy metals mercury, cadmium, lead and arsenic. All four metals are toxic to humans, even at small doses, and can damage all the body’s vital systems, including pulmonary, reproductive and even the central nervous system.
Testing for heavy metals is especially important because cannabis plants are a well-known bio-accumulator that absorbs and collects heavy metals from the soil in which it grows.
For all inhalable products, including pre-rolls, the state sets the pass/fail actionable level at 1.5 parts per million (PPM) for mercury and arsenic, 0.5 PPM for cadmium and 1 PPM for lead.
MICROBIALS AND MYCOTOXINS
But while heavy metals are dangerous, they do not pose the greatest risk to human health among the testing. That distinction is reserved for microbials and mycotoxins.
Among the microbes – bacteria and fungus – for which Colorado requires testing are salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus and e coli. There is also a total yeast and mold limit.
Mycotoxins are a toxic compound produced by molds, such as Aspergillus, and can suppress the immune system and cause liver damage. Testing for mycotoxins help ensure cannabis products are safe for human consumption.
Colorado requires testing for two classes of mycotoxins, Aflatoxins and Ochratoxin A, each with an actionable limit of 20 PPM. Both have properties that can alter DNA and potentially cause the formation of cancer cells.
PRE-ROLL TESTING
But it’s not just the flower that needs to be tested in Colorado. Products must be tested in their final form, which means that pre-rolls, for example, must be tested after they have been packed, so the paper has to be as clean as the flower. And with no regulations or requirements on the testing of rolling papers themselves, several manufacturers have run afoul of the rules because of untested rolling papers or wraps. And testing by SC Labs, one of California’s licensed testing labs, found that 11% of rolling papers tested during a recent study would fail testing. So even if you are packing your own pre-rolls, it’s important to make sure the paper you choose is tested and clean.
Colorado has also had issues with this in the past, particularly in palm leaf wraps and blunts. In 2022, the states Marijuana Enforcement Division issued a recall for King Palm products due to unsafe mold and yeast levels found in the products.
“Take due diligence to make sure your product is viable,” says Custom Cones USA Compliance Manager André Bayard, noting that manufacturers should work with suppliers that are working to set industry standards. “Any one issue can be detrimental to your brand reputation.”
REDUCED TESTING ALLOWANCE
Recognizing the unique challenges and cost of testing, Colorado has introduced new reduced testing allowances, including one tailored for pre-roll cannabis products. This allowance enables cannabis manufacturers to submit composite samples for testing, rather than subjecting each individual batch of pre-rolls to separate testing.
For example, a manufacturer may achieve a Reduced Testing Allowance for contaminant testing for a specific product, like pre-rolls, if every production batch that it produced during at least a four- to eight-week period passed all contaminant tests. However, if those pre rolls are produced using different input materials, such as a different cannabis category (e.g. flower or trim), different wrapper materials, different processes or different equipment, they must get a separate Reduced Testing Allowance.
Additionally, effective July 1, 2024, to achieve or maintain a Reduced Testing Allowance for microbial contaminants, a cultivation facility must have a Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) System in place. An HACCP must contain elements defined in ASTM D8250-19: “Standard Practice for Applying a Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) System for Cannabis Consumable Products” that addresses each product type for which a microbial contaminant Reduced Testing Allowance is sought.
It’s important to highlight that not all cannabis products qualify for this reduced testing allowance, and pre-roll manufacturers must meet specific criteria to be eligible for this exemption. For example, to get a reduced testing allowance for microbial testing, a company must maintain cleaning records and maintenance records.
Reduced testing allowances are valid for one year.
It’s a complicated program to be a part of, but well worth it for manufacturers who have their procedures locked in, as well as a supplier that also tests their pre-rolled cones and tubes to the highest standards to ensure passage of these important tests.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Colorado’s pre-roll cannabis testing regulations play a vital role in safeguarding public health and ensuring consumer confidence in the state’s legal cannabis industry. And from a business standpoint, a testing failure can be costly, especially for smaller businesses, and can follow a company and its products even after the issue is corrected.
Make sure your suppliers take the same care as you do to ensure passage of all required tests. And always ask for COAs.
Member Blog: How to Build a Sustainable Cannabis Packaging Solution
According toNielsenIQ, 92% of consumers say sustainability is important when choosing a brand today. Packaging can play a significant role in helping brands meet their sustainability goals and attract eco-conscious consumers. Designing and manufacturing sustainable packaging requires a holistic approach that includes understanding the actual container, the manufacturing process, transportation and energy requirements, carbon footprint, and government regulations. When it comes to the cannabis industry, packaging solutions must also meet requirements around child resistance, tamper-evidence, opacity, resealability, label design, and more. Despite the complexities, sustainable cannabis packaging can be compliant, functional, and beautiful. Cannabis brands have many eco-friendly pathways to consider.
Compostable
Compostable packaging refers to packaging that will decompose into nutrient-rich organic matter, CO2, and water in a controlled environment in the home or commercial composting facility. According to theU.S. Composting Council, compost diverts waste from ending up in landfills, conserves water, improves soil health, promotes plant growth, and combats climate change. Because of their organic composition, cannabis products are an emerging application for compostable packaging made from hemp and other plant-based materials. Compostable products must meet strict testingrequirements for decomposition, such as specific environment, specific time frame, environmental toxicity, etc. Compostable should not be confused with biodegradable packaging, which has no such requirements and may contribute to greenwashing. Compostable packaging solutions are available for cannabis products, including pre-rolls, flower, and edibles.
Recycled Materials
Beyond using recyclable packaging, today’s brands are increasingly using recycled materials like post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastics, ocean-bound plastics, and recycled paperboard to demonstrate a commitment to the environment. Post-consumer recycled content in packaging contributes to a circular economy by extending material life cycles. According to theUS Plastic Pact, it reduces landfill waste, conserves natural resources, saves energy, and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. Adding PCR content to packaging decreases its carbon footprint (reduced energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, extraction of finite natural resources, and landfill disposal) compared to using 100% virgin materials, helping brands meet their sustainability goals. In addition to consumer demand, government regulations are also driving the use of PCR materials. New York introduced requirements for PCR plastic use in cannabis packaging. The Marijuana Regulation & Taxation Act (MRTA) states, “cannabis product packaging cannot be made of any plastic, unless that plastic contains a minimum 25% post-consumer recycled content.”
Reusability
Reusable shopping bags, refillable water bottles, and metal drinking straws are just a few reuse initiatives people have worked into their everyday routines over the past several years. Reusability reduces single-use packaging waste and promotes a circular economy. Consumer packaged goods brand owners – including those in the cannabis industry – are beginning to capitalize on the growing refill and reuse mentality by introducing reusable packaging. Reusable cannabis packaging can be refilled with more cannabis or used for other purposes. Material selection is essential to ensure reusability is practical and sustainable. Glass containers and high-quality, durable plastics are long-lasting and well-suited for reuse. Food-safe packaging solutions provide added functionality and additional usage occasions. Dockside Cannabis dispensaries feature seven ways to repurpose old cannabis containers.
Paper, Inks & Labeling
Secondary packaging, label components, and decoration can also play a role in a brand’s sustainability story. UsingForestry Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper for shipping cases, secondary cartons, and inserts helps protect healthy, resilient forests. Several cannabis brands use FSC paper for their rolling papers. Inks may not be top of mind when considering eco-friendly packaging, but even seemingly minor details can have a significant impact. Inks, dyes, and coatings can inhibit recyclability and/or reusability, so using soy-based, water-based, or vegetable-based inks contributes to the lifecycle of a package.Soulshine Cannabis uses paper sourced from sustainable PNW forests and prints with vegetable-based inks as part of its commitment to be an environmentally conscious cannabis company.
Shipping Efficiencies
For a packaging solution to be truly sustainable, it needs to perform at every stage of its journey, from the warehouse to the consumer. Shipping is a big part of a package’s journey and an important part of its carbon footprint. According to theEPA, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transportation account for about 29% of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. When it comes to transportation – and cannabis – size matters. Sizing is an essential factor when selecting the proper cannabis packaging, as it can impact the quality of the product. However, right-sizing your package to ensure it’s not larger than it needs to be can reduce the environmental impacts of shipping. Light-weighting – reducing the weight of your package by rethinking the size, material, or unneeded components – can also make a difference. Efficient packaging can reduce fuel consumption and emissions associated with shipping.
When it comes tosustainable cannabis packaging, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Brands should consider a variety of tactics including material, size, weight, decoration, and more to find the most effective and impactful package for their product.
Committee Blog: The Importance of Insurance and Risk Management for Early State Applicants
2024 is shaping up to be a bang-up year for cannabis whether its constant news about the potential for federal action regarding rescheduling, or multiple states expanding their current cannabis markets or entering the cannabis space for the first time. As exciting as all this is for prospective cannabis business owners and operators, there’s an issue which we in the cannabis industry often encounter time and time again.
There’s plenty of businesses seeking to enter the industry who overlook the importance of insurance and risk management. This may not be the most exciting topics when thinking about cannabis, but its one of the most important and often sidelined. Here, we’ll dive into how insurance and risk management can impact your cannabis business and why it’s important not to delay this vital step in your business development.
Insurance and Cannabis
Due to the current federal illegality of cannabis, just the process of getting insurance for your cannabis business can be a headache. But just because it can be frustrating to get, doesn’t mean that this important business step should be forgotten about or ignored. If anything, starting early on your cannabis insurance path will help set you apart from others in early licensing phases and can often help with getting a license itself.
All states which have their own cannabis market require some form of insurance, and many require insurance documentation as a requirement for the licensing process. This can often be any form of insurance—from fire protection to property—so long as it’s up to date and follows the state regulations and guidelines.
What Are the Risks?
Perhaps no bigger risk in working with cannabis nowadays is the federal side of business. While we are eager about the prospects for rescheduling and with that, hopefully, some banking regulations such as some version of the SAFE Banking Act, there is always the federal risks. The odds are low that the federal government is going to step in and shut down all cannabis operations in states, but they aren’t entirely eliminated risks either.
Of course, when it comes to risk management, the federal government and their response to cannabis business isn’t the only thing business owners need to be concerned with. There’s the risks of theft of cash, diversion of cannabis and cannabis product, and even high turnover of staff. These are all inherent risks that should be managed and assessed when pursuing a cannabis license. This is also the case for businesses which may be up and running, though it is most critical to assess the risks and your own handling of them as early as possible.
Early Steps to Take
Let’s say you’re interested in opening your cannabis business. Maybe you’ve received a provisional license from the state, or perhaps you’re waiting for an application licensing round to open. What should you do when it comes to insurance and risk management?
Simple; start sooner than you anticipate. Over the years, clients have asked me countless times, “When should I get to work?”. It never hurts to be over-prepared, but it can torpedo your chances at licensure or opening a compliant cannabis business if you delay or rush some of the most important and necessary business functions. Insurance and risk management may not be what gets people into cannabis (I’m a nerd and think both these areas or interesting but even *I* wouldn’t say they’re what got me into this industry!) but they are essential. Start early and begin doing your own research in these areas.
Thankfully, there are insurance providers who will work with “plant-touching” businesses such as a dispensary or cultivation facility. They may not be the easiest to come by, but they are out there and are familiar with cannabis operations and the risks associated with insuring a business like yours.
And when it comes to risk management, identify your own risks through a thorough SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) or a detailed risk assessment. Find professionals who can guide you through this too if needed, as they’ll be the ones who can highlight what are some of the unique and individualized risks your business may have. For example, an outdoor cultivator has different risks than an indoor cultivator or a hoop-house cultivator.
When it comes to insurance and risk management, it’s never too early to begin discussing and meeting with professionals who can help and this is an area which shouldn’t be ignored or put onto the back burner for too long.
Igniting Conversations: NCIA’s Stakeholder Summit Series Sparks Dialogue
In recent months, the National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA) has embarked on a journey that brought together industry leaders, regulators, policymakers, and advocates for a series of Stakeholder Summits across the United States. From the sun-drenched streets of California to the bustling cities of Maryland and the picturesque landscapes of Colorado, these events have served as a nexus for collaboration, innovation, and progress within the cannabis industry. As we reflect on the success of this inaugural Stakeholder Summit series, let’s delve deeper into the highlights and impact of these conversations which are helping to shape the future of cannabis policy nationwide.
Setting the Stage: The Vision Behind NCIA’s Stakeholder Summit Series
The Stakeholder Summit series was conceived with a singular vision: to create a platform where industry stakeholders could converge to address pressing issues, share insights, and drive positive change. With a focus on education and advocacy, these summits aimed to tackle the most significant challenges facing the cannabis industry while fostering meaningful connections and partnerships.
Insights and Impact: Highlights from the Summits
California Stakeholder Summit: Influencing Regulatory Policies
In Sacramento, the California Stakeholder Summit 2024 was a testament to the power of collaboration and dialogue in shaping regulatory policies. Notable speakers, including Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) and Nicole Elliott, California’s Director of the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC), offered insights into the impending rescheduling of cannabis and the intricate relationship between state and federal regulations. Panel discussions, such as the one on AB 2223 featuring Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters), provided a platform for industry operators to voice their concerns and shape regulatory policies. The summit served as a vital catalyst for driving progress in California’s cannabis industry.
In St. Louis, the Missouri Stakeholder Summit convened industry leaders to address proposed legislation that could significantly impact the availability of Delta-8 THC products in the state. Amy Moore, director of the Division of Cannabis Regulation at Missouri’s Department of Health and Senior Services, highlighted the potential implications of the Intoxicating Cannabinoid Control Act on the market. The summit underscored the need for comprehensive regulations that balance consumer safety with industry growth. While discussions sparked pushback from both sides, stakeholders remain committed to finding solutions that support a thriving cannabis market in Missouri.
Maryland Stakeholder Summit: Advancing Equity and Regulation
In Baltimore, the Maryland Stakeholder Summit convened industry operators, leading regulators, and advocates to address pressing issues within the state’s cannabis landscape. Notable speakers, including Chris Jackson of ForesTree (and current Chair of NCIA’s Board of Directors), Will Tilburg of Maryland Cannabis Administration, Tracey Lancaster Miller of Maryland Dispensary Association, and Joy Strand of Maryland Wholesale Cannabis Trade Association, provided insights into key topics relevant to Maryland’s emerging adult-use cannabis industry. Discussions revolved around equity, regulatory challenges, and the path to federal regulation. Attendees actively engaged in shaping the conversation, emphasizing the need for equitable policies and inclusive regulatory frameworks. As Maryland navigates the rollout of an adult-use program, the summit produced meaningful dialogue and called for collective action towards a more equitable and sustainable industry across the state.
In Denver, the Colorado Stakeholder Summit provided a platform for industry leaders to discuss innovations and challenges within the state’s long-standing but beleaguered cannabis marketplace. Panel discussions explored topics ranging from federal regulation pathways, legislative challenges in the Colorado market, and the future of cannabis hospitality in the state Expert panels then delved into federal regulation, and the future of cannabis hospitality. Governor Jared Polis provided a closing keynote address, where he emphasized the importance of incremental steps towards federal legalization. With a focus on rescheduling and cannabis banking reform, Governor Polis outlined these initiatives as crucial “dominoes” on the path to broader legalization. He also celebrated Colorado’s leadership in the cannabis movement while acknowledging the ongoing need for regulatory improvements, specifically by ensuring equity in Colorado’s cannabis industry. As the state reflects on a decade of legal cannabis sales, the summit highlighted the economic benefits and regulatory successes of Colorado’s cannabis landscape while also addressing current challenges in the Centennial State.
Looking Ahead: NCIA’s 12th Annual Cannabis Industry Lobby Days
As we reflect on the success of the Stakeholder Summit series, we’re excited for our upcoming 12th Annual Cannabis Industry Lobby Days event. Taking place next month, NCIA Lobby Days offers industry professionals the opportunity to advocate for policies that support a fair and equitable cannabis market. From meeting with legislators to participating in advocacy training sessions, Lobby Days provides a platform for industry stakeholders to make their voices heard. NCIA’s Lobby Days is open to all industry leaders who want to make a positive difference. Haven’t lobbied Congress before? Don’t worry. We can provide online training, talking points, and assign you to a team led by an industry colleague with past fly-in experience. Learn more and register online today.
Igniting Conversations: NCIA’s Stakeholder Summit Series Sparks Dialogue
The Stakeholder Summit series has already made a significant impact on our collective interests of continued progress across the cannabis industry, fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and advancing regulatory reform efforts. Through meaningful dialogue and engagement, stakeholders have been able to identify common challenges, explore potential solutions, and forge new partnerships. Tangible outcomes, such as policy recommendations and advocacy initiatives, have emerged from the summits, demonstrating the power of collective action within the industry. As we look ahead to future events and initiatives, we remain committed to advancing the interests of our members and the industry as a whole. Stay tuned as we continue these conversations.
Partners in Progress:
At NCIA, we recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions of our sponsors and partners, each playing a unique role in the success of the Stakeholder Summit Series. Our Platinum sponsors provided invaluable support for the events and were granted the exclusive opportunity to kick off each program. Their generous contributions helped set the tone for productive discussions and meaningful engagement, making a significant impact on the success of the series. Gold sponsors were an essential element of our exhibit hall in each market. Their support ensured that attendees had access to a diverse range of resources, services, and expertise, enriching the summit experience and facilitating valuable connections within the industry. Additionally, our Silver & Advocate sponsors alongside our numerous Allied Association Partners played a crucial role in ensuring a low barrier to entry for other vital service providers and member businesses. Their support helped create a welcoming and inclusive environment, allowing a diverse array of stakeholders to participate and contribute to the vision of the Stakeholder Summit Series.
Haley Glover, Senior Security Consultant at Sapphire Risk
So, you run a cannabis business. You’ve spent years and years going through the licensing process, finding a suitable facility, hiring qualified employees, and growing top shelf buds to impress sophisticated buyers.
It hasn’t been easy – and it hasn’t been cheap. But that feeling you get when you help a sick customer find their new favorite medicine – well, that makes it all worthwhile. After all that hard work, nobody wants to see it all slip away in the middle of the night (and sometimes broad daylight) due to theft.
We have long known cannabis businesses’ perceived abundance of cash on hand has attracted criminal activity. This is evident with the industry’s issues of armed robberies and the silent scourge of employee theft, targeting everyone — well-known brands likeCookies to mom & pop shops. This blog will examine a recent trend which has been on the rise, criminals utilizing vehicles to breach facilities in the act of a burglary.
While not a new technique, vehicle rammings have risen in prevalence over the past few years, sparked in part by a TikTok trend known as the Kia Boyz. As the Cannabis Information Sharing & Analysis Organization (Cannabis ISAO) detailed for The Blunt, thetrend starting picking up within the industry in 2022 as social media spread details on how to easily start non push-button ignitions on certain makes and models utilizing aUSB charger.
It is important to understand crime trends like this to evaluate a changing risk landscape, which can impact how resources are deployed. But for this blog, how a criminal obtained a stolen vehicle and breached your outer security isn’t the most relevant question. We will focus both on mitigation strategies, as well as how to respond to such incidents.
Let’s Hear From A Security Professional
With years of experience in cannabis (not to mention jewelry stores and pawn shops), the Sapphire Risk team are bona fide experts in security. Though they prefer to be involved as early as the application/buildout process, Sapphire’s team frequently gets called in after break-ins to help operators fortify their facilities.
We spoke with Sapphire Risk’s Senior Security Consultant Haley Glover, who shared the following advice about preventing unauthorized vehicular-assisted entry. “Implementing physical barriers like bollards or security planters placed strategically around the exterior of the building are great ways to prevent a vehicle from successfully driving through your location.” Bollards can be tremendously effective at stopping an errant vehicle in its tracks. Keep an eye out and you’re likely to notice them around federal buildings, banks, and high-end retail stores!
Another area of concern for cannabis businesses are the entryways. Haley advises, “A business can utilize the strongest and most secure door, but without a frame to match it, the door is useless, so it’s important to consider all aspects of a facility when securing it and identifying where threats and vulnerabilities could be present.” Don’t put a strong door in the middle of some cheap drywall!
Beyond Walls, Bars & Guards
While Warden Norton from Shawshank Redemption felt the only way to spend tax-payers’ hard-earned money was to get “more walls, more bars, and more guards”, adding additional physical barriers is not the only deterrence strategy that cannabis operators should be considering to safeguard their facilities.
Washington State’s Senateunanimously passed a bill that would increase penalties for anyone who utilizes a vehicle to gain entry into a cannabis retailer.Senate Bill 6133, sponsored by state Sen. Jim McCune, R-Graham, would have a new “special allegation” to seek an additional year of custody for the convicted criminal. Prosecutors could also charge the suspect with either first-degree or second-degree robbery – a class A or class B felony, respectively. (A PDF of the bill can be viewed here.)
NCIA’s Risk Management & Insurance Committee recently spoke with Senator McCune’s staff to learn more about this initiative. It is important to note that while this bill’s genesis from legislative recognition of a growing safety problem, there is now a model for industry professionals in other states to help drive legislation that will serve as a proactive deterrent.
While the passing of the Integrity, Notification, and Fairness in Online Retail Marketplaces for Consumers (INFORM Act) by Congress last year made headlines as a major win in the fight against Organized Retail Crime (ORC), it’s mainly addresses the problem of reselling stolen merchandise via online marketplaces, which is not the destination of stolen cannabis products. This is further proof cannabis businesses need to lean into their State legislatures to get support that is currently unavailable at the Federal level. Efforts like theRobbery Tracker that has been put together for several years by Uncle Ike’s Ian Eisenberg can help demonstrate to legislators the need for additional crime deterrents.
Dive into Insurance Mumbo Jumbo
Let’s talk about Protective Safeguards endorsements on cannabis property policies. These endorsements will exclude losses if all the described protective safeguards (security guards, alarms, cameras, vault, etc.) aren’t in place and/or properly functioning. Imagine having a house fire and getting your claim denied because you didn’t replace the batteries in your smoke detector. Well, it’s the same thing for cannabis.
Protective Safeguards endorsements can be as simple as a burglar alarm or as demanding as needing a follow car, two way radios, and telematics in place for your cannabis delivery vehicles. Another common provision is for product on display – most insurance policies required product to be stored in a safe/vault while a store is non-operational, with a sublimit only allowing around 25% of stock to be on display at any given time. Whatever the situation, best to make sure you read the policy thoroughly and understand what is required of you for coverage to respond.
One should also be familiar with the coverage sublimits in their policy and adjust them regularly to adequately reflect stock on hand. In another scenario, a cannabis business has all of their security systems and protective safeguards in line. Robbers come by and steal millions of dollars worth of cannabis products — but the business only has a $100,000 sublimit for cannabis inventory! Imagine the frustration of following all the rules and only walking away with a partial reimbursement after a huge loss.
Incident Response
As with any incident, things go more smoothly when you have a plan in place and everyone knows their roles and responsibilities. This can help ensure to both expedite the process, while also making sure vital steps are not overlooked.
Some items that should be contemplated in the plan might include:
Contact local law enforcement
Gather and maintain written event logs
CCTV video storage and maintenance
Appropriate follow-up steps depending on the situation
security weak-spot reviews,
HR interviews,
medical follow-up, or
filing an insurance claim
By having formal guidelines in place for event response, you’ll save valuable time and money getting the business operational again — while minimizing the confusion that your employees face during a time of crisis.
Conclusion
The RMIC advocates for a proactive approach to risk management that emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making. When in doubt, contact a trusted insurance professional and get a second set of eyes on your coverage — and your protective safeguards!
Member Blog: Amazon’s “Hemp” Products Are Lying to You, New CBD Oracle Lab Study Finds
Amazon’s “Hemp” Products Are Lying to You (and Hurting the Industry), New CBD Oracle Lab Study Finds
TL;DR: A CBD Oracle investigation finds that 43% of hemp products sold on Amazon often don’t contain hemp at all, and are deceptively marketed to evade Amazon’s lax enforcement.
The independent investigation of the hemp market on Amazon which was commissioned by CBD Oracle has found that almost half of all products lie to customers and has revealed the challenges faced by both consumers and honest sellers on the platform.
Along with 43% of so-called “hemp” products not containing any hemp at all, companies selling on Amazon.com often report their products being pulled from the storefront while those obviously lying about their contents remain up on sale.
The market is a minefield for consumers and the main benefactors are deceptive fly-by-night companies and Amazon themselves.
A Brief Introduction to Amazon’s Hemp
If you’ve ever bought or sold hemp before, browsing the selection available on Amazon is truly bewildering.
Products promise doses of hemp that are impossible to fit into a gummy, make obvious medical claims and reassure customers that they’re third-party lab tested while usually not making the results available on Amazon or anywhere else. There are so many red flags they start to look like wallpaper.
Amazonpolicy prohibits CBD unless it’s a topical product which has been specifically approved. This was established to prevent unreliable or illegal products from making it onto the site, but the consequence has been just the opposite. Instead, sellers simply don’t mention the word “CBD” anywhere on the product page, and this provides a smoke-screen to companies hoping to sell the expectation of CBD while actually offering nothing of the sort.
“Hemp” on Amazon is not a description, but a purposefully vague euphemism.
Testing the Hemp Sold on Amazon
CBD Oracle purchased 56 of the most popular hemp products on Amazon and sent them toInfiniteCAL for testing. The main results show the impact of the current policies on the platform.
30% of products contained CBD. Although these products violate Amazon policy, they at least offer customers what the listings imply in a basic sense.
62.5% of products contained no cannabinoids at all. Given that the majority of products explicitly promised some amount of “hemp” in milligrams, these products are misleading at best.
43% of products contained no hemp at all, as verified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) testing. Every single product in the study promised “hemp,” but even if they meant hemp seed oil, these 43% are still blatantly deceiving customers.
11% of products tested positive for THC, with three products having huge quantities of delta-8 THC. The maximum dose per gummy was 76 mg THC.
96% of products did not provide an accurate dosage to customers. This means that the measured dosage doesn’t fall within 10% of what they advertised.
The Misleading Marketing of Amazon’s Hemp
The lab results show that the hemp sold on Amazon doesn’t meet the expected standard of CBD and hemp products in the modern day. However, customers on Amazon are less likely to be engaged with the industry and probably have less of an idea of what is expected of any hemp product. Combined with some careful marketing, this makes the average Amazon hemp buyer way more likely to pick up an unreliable product.
CBD Oracle’s analysis of the marketing of Amazon hemp reveals many serious problems with the market and the claims sellers make:
52% of products are sold based on unapproved medical claims, often surrounding pain, stress or anxiety relief.
95% of products do not provide a third-party lab report to consumers anywhere online, and none of them are shown on Amazon.
Customer reviews were unreliable in about half of cases. Mozilla’s FakeSpot rated 48% of products D or lower for overall reliability.
There was no reliable, direct method to communicate with the sellers behind 89% of products. 28 products were identified as breaking theINFORM Consumers Act.
Many products make claims which are literally impossible (e.g. 7.7 pounds of “hemp” in a 0.8 pound package), but are not removed when reported to Amazon.
How Amazon’s Hemp Impacts the Wider Industry
Amazon’s hemp market is not only bad for the customers who choose to make purchases through the retailer; it also threatens the perception of the industry at large.
Andrew Livingston, Director of Economics & Research at Vicente, commented to CBD Oracle that:
“One, these products drive consumer[s] away from the entire hemp supplement category for fear that the entire market cannot be trusted or is not properly regulated. This means legitimate businesses with great products that benefit consumers lose out. Second, problematically labeled and branded hemp products indicate to regulators and public officials that the entire category needs more robust and stringent restrictions.”
In short, even though these products come from unknown companies and aren’t widely regarded in the hemp industry, their careless actions threaten to drag the whole industry through the mud with them.
Conclusion: How Amazon Can Solve the Problem
Amazon’s hemp problem is created by a lack of enforcement and a policy which incentivizes companies that lie about their products. In line with this, there are two avenues for a solution.
Firstly, Amazon could simply devote more resources to enforcing their current policy.
Alternatively, and more realistically, they could acknowledge that CBD is sold on their platform, and instead rectify their policy. By allowing CBD products if they are backed up with a certificate of analysis by an accredited third-party lab, honest manufacturers would be able to compete on a level playing field, and virtually all of the products in this analysis would have to prove their claims or be removed from sale.
One thing is certain: the status quo on Amazon is harmful to both consumers and the industry, and it has to stop.
Lee Johnson is the senior editor at CBD Oracle, and has been covering science, vaping and cannabis for over a decade. He focuses on research-driven deep dives into topics ranging from medical uses for CBD to industry and user statistics, as well as general guides and explainers for consumers.
CBD Oracle is a consumer research company working to improve the safety and transparency of cannabis and hemp products, producing in-depth research pieces on cannabis and cannabinoids, along with analysis of social and legal issues.
Member Blog: Regulating the Cannabis Industry for Accuracy and Integrity
Regulating the Cannabis Industry forAccuracy and Integrity
In the fast-evolving landscape of the cannabis industry, ensuring accurate testingstandards is paramount to safeguarding consumer safety, maintaining regulatorycompliance, and fostering fair market competition. However, a pervasive challengeknown as cannabinoid inflation threatens to undermine these essential principles,posing a significant obstacle to the industry’s growth and legitimacy.
Understanding Cannabinoid Inflation
Cannabinoid inflationrefers to the practice of cannabis testing laboratories providinginaccurately high cannabinoid concentrations in their reports, often in an attempt toattract business. This phenomenon distorts market dynamics, leading to unfaircompetition and jeopardizing the credibility of legitimate labs that adhere to rigoroustesting standards. Contaminant deflationis a significant concern, too, as labs willing toinflate cannabinoids are also more likely to underreport the presence and/or amount ofhazardous substances.
At the heart of this issue lies a fundamental discrepancy between reported and actualcannabinoid content in cannabis products. As cannabis producers and distributors seekout labs offering higher THC values, a troubling trend is to use only labs that will inflatethe value of desirable cannabinoids, such as THC. This practice, known as laboratory shopping, perpetuates the cycle of inflated results, undermining integrity and forcingaccurate reporting labs out of business.
Proposing Regulatory Solutions
To address this pressing cannabinoid inflation challenge, Digamma Consulting,renowned experts in cannabis chemistry, presents a comprehensive set of regulatorysolutions in their latest white paper, Solutions to Cannabinoid Inflation.
Solution A: Data Analysis Reports Advocating the adoption of data analysis reports,Digamma proposes a systematic approach to analyzing testing data, providingregulators with a solid foundation for action. By leveraging data analytics, authoritiescan identify trends, anomalies, and potential instances of cannabinoid inflation. Suchidentification enables regulators to make targeted and legally justified interventions thatcan help to improve testing integrity.
Solution B: Suspect Product Checks Digamma recommends implementing suspectproduct checks, also known as “secret shopper” programs, to detect inflatedcannabinoid values. This cost-effective mechanism allows states to conduct productsampling and testing of suspected lab results by independent accredited referencelaboratories that will validate reported cannabinoid content and mitigate inflated results.
Solution C: Chemical Analysis Laboratory Audits Digamma proposes implementingin-person audits of chemical analysis laboratories to ensure testing integrity and thusdirectly address cannabinoid inflation. Subjecting testing facilities to rigorous scrutiny byexpert auditors enables regulators to assess compliance with standards and uphold theintegrity of the testing process.
Digamma’s White Paper: Solutions to Cannabinoid Inflation
Digamma’s white paper on regulating the cannabis industry for accuracy and integrityrepresents a significant step toward addressing the pervasive challenge of cannabinoidinflation. By advocating for practical, low-cost regulatory solutions, Digamma Consultingaims to empower government regulators to uphold transparency, impartiality, and legaldefensibility in cannabis testing reporting and labeling.
As the industry continues to evolve, it is imperative to prioritize consumer safety,regulatory compliance, and market fairness. Through collaborative efforts and ongoingdialogue, we can navigate the complexities of the cannabis industry and propel it towarda future characterized by integrity, transparency, and accountability. Join Digammainthe quest to build a safe, fair, and thriving cannabis industry for all.
Policy Matters: High Stakes in the Heartland – Missouri’s Cannabis Landscape
Unlock the full recording of our must-watch #IndustryEssentials webinar series, “Policy Matters,” where we take you inside the evolving world of cannabis regulation in Missouri.
In this insightful episode, we are honored to feature Amy Moore, Director of the Division of Cannabis Regulation at the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. With her extensive experience, Amy shares her journey as a regulator, providing an in-depth look at the challenges and triumphs in shaping Missouri’s cannabis marketplace.
What You’ll Learn:
The evolution of Missouri’s cannabis market
Regulatory strategies implemented by the Division of Cannabis Regulation
Key insights leading up to our Missouri Stakeholder Summit
Whether you’re preparing for the upcoming Missouri Stakeholder Summit or seeking to understand the regulatory dynamics that could impact your business, this webinar is your go-to resource.
Don’t miss out—gain the knowledge that could shape the future of cannabis regulation in Missouri.
Watch Now and stay ahead of the curve!
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