Navigating CDPHE’s Hemp Testing Changes

On January 14th, 2024, hemp testing in Colorado enacted a significant evolution with the enforcement of DEHS Rule 6 CCR, 1010-24 by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). This rule brings forth additional requirements that laboratories must adhere to for certification and compliance testing. Failure to comply with these regulations may render test results invalid for regulatory purposes, impacting the entire hemp industry.

This article will particularly focus on the implications of these regulations for THC and other cannabinoid potency testing, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for regulated hemp product manufacturers and testing laboratories alike.

Certified Laboratory Compliance

Under the updated regulations, analytical testing must be conducted by a certified laboratory following the Hemp Testing Laboratory Certification rules outlined in 5 CCR 1005-5. This ensures the integrity and reliability of testing procedures, crucial for maintaining quality standards within the industry.

Reporting Potency Overage and Contaminant Testing:

Regulated hemp facilities are mandated to report any potency overage or contaminant action limits to the CDPHE within 48 hours of receiving confirmed analytical testing results. If a product fails contaminant testing due to excessive contaminant levels, it must be promptly reported. Furthermore, the CDPHE reserves the right to request additional laboratory testing if there are concerns regarding public health or safety, emphasizing the paramount importance of consumer well-being.

Documentation and Certificate of Analysis

Certificates of analysis from certified hemp testing laboratories serve as documentation of conformity with established testing requirements. Regulated hemp product manufacturers are responsible for maintaining these certificates for all products to ensure safety and compliance with minimum testing standards.

THC and Other Cannabinoid Content

The updated regulations expand the scope of THC testing to include various THC isomers such as Delta-10 THC, Delta-7 THC, Delta-6a THC and others. Laboratories must validate methods to accurately quantify these new compounds, ensuring precise measurement and reporting of total THC content.

Unlabeled Cannabinoids

Additionally, any unidentified peaks representing over 1% of the total peak area in a regulated product must be investigated and reported if determined to be an unlabeled cannabinoid.

Triverity's Response to Regulation Changes

In light of the regulatory updates, Triverity Laboratories has identified and addressed the need to incorporate seven additional THC isomers into their cannabinoid profile method. This necessitated extensive evaluation of specificity, linearity, accuracy, and precision across various sample matrices to ensure compliance with the new requirements.

Moreover, Triverity has devised a plan to evaluate sample chromatograms for any unlabeled cannabinoids exceeding 1% area. In the event that peaks above the 1% area are detected, Triverity will work closely with their customers to attempt to identify the peak using a library of cannabinoids and assessment of the product’s other ingredients to potentially exclude it as a vehicle peak. By leveraging their expertise and robust testing methodologies, Triverity aims to support their clients in meeting the evolving regulatory landscape while upholding product quality and safety standards.

Conclusion

Amidst the evolving regulatory landscape, Triverity Laboratories stands out as a trailblazer in hemp product testing compliance. As the first and currently only lab to fully comply with the new CDPHE regulations for THC and other cannabinoid potency testing, enforced under DEHS Rule 6 CCR, 1010-24, Triverity demonstrates unwavering commitment to excellence.

By choosing Triverity, Colorado regulated hemp product manufacturers gain a trusted partner dedicated to delivering accurate, reliable, and compliant testing solutions, empowering them to thrive in Colorado's dynamic hemp industry landscape.

T: (+1) 970-800-2917

E: engage@triveritylabs.com