With a different set of rules than the cannabis industry, the hemp and CBD market is subject to the federal laws set forth in the hemp regulations of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
IFR Farm Bill Origin
“The term ‘hemp’ means the plant Cannabis sativa L. and any part of that plant, including the seeds thereof and all derivatives, extracts, cannabinoids, isomers, acids, salts, and salts of isomers, whether growing or not, with a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol concentration of not more than 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis.” SEC. 297A, 2018 Agricultural Improvement Act
At GPA, following the recommended schedule below will ensure that your product contains less than 0.3% THC, and is free of pesticides, microbial, and heavy metals contamination.
When do I need Hemp Testing?
Step 1:
It is always good practice to adequately assess the soil you are using prior to planting in a field or greenhouse. Soil Pesticide and Heavy Metals testing is recommended prior to planting.
Step 2:
Early in the life cycle of your plants, it is best to ensure that your THC level is less than 0.3% for legal purposes. Our 10-Cannabinoid profile is strongly recommended. We also recommend our PCR Microbiology testing for mold, fungus, E. coli, Salmonella, and pesticide testing.
Step 3:
After harvesting your plants, a full compliance panel is recommended to ensure your flower is free of contaminants. The following testing is needed for a full compliance panel:
- • Cannabinoid Profile
- • Moisture Content
- • Pesticides
- • Heavy Metals
- • PCR Microbiology
- • Mycotoxins
- • Terpenes
Following Steps 1 through 3 will certify any hemp flower grown is safe for consumption, extraction, and production.
Extraction: After your hemp has been harvested and cured, the next step may be to have your hemp processed for CBD. There are several different extraction processes which use liquid solvents to successfully extract cannabinoids from your hemp. Any type of CBD oil or concentrates should be tested for Cannabinoid Profile, PCR Microbiology, Residual Solvents, Terpenes, and Pesticides.
Manufacturing: GPA accepts a wide range of products from edibles, drinks, topicals, tinctures, and just about any product you can put your CBD into. To ensure all of your CBD products are held to the highest standard, the following tests are recommended:
- • Cannabinoid Profile
- • Moisture Content
- • Pesticides
- • Heavy Metals
- • PCR Microbiology
- • Mycotoxins
- • Terpenes
**GPA IS CURRENTLY IN THE PROCESS OF OBTAINING A DEA LICENSE FOR ALL HEMP TESTING. ALL CURRENT HEMP TESTING IS FOR RESEARCH PURPOSES ONLY.***