Microbial Testing

Microorganisms found in cannabis flower and cannabis products have the potential to be harmful to patients when consumed or inhaled. In most states, pathogenic organisms such as Aspergillus spp., E. coli, Salmonella spp., and fungal biproducts called mycotoxins are deemed necessary to test. 

In addition to pathogenic microorganisms and their biproducts, the medical cannabis, pharmaceutical, and food industries utilize indicator organisms to monitor hygienic conditions during the production process.The presence of specific bacteria (Total Viable Aerobic Bacteria, Total Coliforms, and/or Bile-tolerant Gram-Negative Bacteria) and/or total yeasts or molds over set limits is an indicator of poor hygiene and potential microbiological contamination.

Our testing methodology involves a fully-automated quality indicator testing system for the enumeration of quality indicator organisms. In addition, we employ traditional plating techniques and microarray analysis specifically for the detection of pathogenic organisms, ensuring a comprehensive and precise assessment of microbial presence. At Spectra Analytical Lab, we specialize in testing for a range of microbial organisms as mandated by HDOH, seen below:

  • Total Viable Aerobic Bacteria
  • Bile-tolerant Gram-Negative Bacteria
  • Total Coliforms
  • Total Yeast and Mold
  • Pathogenic E. coli
  • Salmonella species
  • Aspergillus flavus
  • Aspergillus fumigatus
  • Aspergillus niger
  • Aspergillus terreus
  • Mycotoxins:
    • Aflatoxin B1
    • Aflatoxin G1
    • Aflatoxin B2
    • Aflatoxin G2
    • Ochratoxin A