Opinion: Beyond the Colony Count: Cannabis Testing Must Evolve

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Let’s be blunt: the cannabis industry has a dirty little secret. While we celebrate legalization and a booming market, our testing standards lag dangerously behind. We’re fixated on quantifying total microbial counts, like obsessive-compulsive gardeners counting blades of grass, while overlooking the real threat—pathogenic bacteria that can turn a relaxing toke into a medical emergency. This needs to change. We must shift our focus from broad microbial assessments to targeted pathogen detection to protect public health.

Currently, most cannabis testing regulations emphasize quantifying total aerobic bacteria, total yeast and mold counts, and other microbial colonies. The current testing standards rely on antiquated microbial plating methods, which require time-consuming incubation periods and inaccurate counting methodologies, typically by hand. This approach is like judging a party by the sheer number of attendees, not whether anyone is harboring a contagious illness. Sure, a crowded party might be overwhelming, but the guest with the hacking cough poses a real risk. Similarly, in cannabis, it’s the presence of specific pathogens like  Aspergillus fumigatus or a Salmonella species that can cause serious harm. And let’s be honest; nobody wants a side of salmonella with their Sour Diesel. This discrepancy is glaring when compared to the food industry. Imagine if cheese and fruit were tested only for total bacteria, without regard for specific pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes! For good reason, the FDA has stringent standards for detecting specific pathogens in our food supply. Why should cannabis be any different? The science is clear: we need a more targeted approach. For a deeper understanding of the regulatory discrepancies and scientific rationale behind this argument, I encourage you to explore the work of  Dr. Sherman Hom, PhD and his colleagues at Medicinal Genomics.

Let’s be blunt: the cannabis industry has a dirty little secret. While we celebrate legalization and a booming market, our testing standards lag dangerously behind.

– Ben Sigman, MS, MBA Candidate at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School

The solution lies in adopting more advanced technologies. PCR, or polymerase chain reaction, offers a precise method for identifying specific pathogens. Compared to traditional plating, PCR is more efficient, accurate, and reliable. PCR allows us to detect pathogens in a small sample based on the presence of their specific DNA code. PCR testing allows us to pinpoint the culprits and ensure consumer safety. By embracing PCR-based testing, we can move beyond crude microbial assessments and prioritize public health. Some real-world applications of PCR include:

  • COVID-19 testing
  • Paternity testing
  • Forensic DNA analysis at crime scenes
  • Genetic testing for diseases
  • Research in molecular biology

The consequences of inadequate testing are significant. As highlighted by Dr Hom, the industry needs to focus on clinically relevant studies behind contaminated cannabis. Cannabis requires species-specific human pathogen testing; it is essential to understand which microbes contain clinical value to focus on. Contaminated cannabis can lead to severe health issues, particularly for immunocompromised individuals. It’s a risk we cannot afford to ignore. Please refer to the Clinical Microbiology and Infection article Too Many Mouldy Joints – Marijuana and Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis. This article details cases of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in cannabis users, which is a serious condition that can lead to severe respiratory issues and even death (Gargani et al., 2011). Additionally, the CDC published a study indicating that cannabis users are 3.5 times more likely to acquire a fungal infection. 

As Jini Glaros, MS, former Chief Science Officer at Modern Canna Labs and owner of CannaCAS, aptly points out, “The biggest misconception is that any microbial testing is adequate. Standard plate counts are ineffective for certain fungi and cannot enumerate all microbes present. We must move beyond this outdated method and embrace more advanced techniques like PCR.” 

The issue isn’t solely a lack of understanding about the dangers of pathogens. It’s more nuanced than that. According to Glaros, the challenge lies in the legislative framework and the complexities of changing regulations. Think of it like this: we’re trying to steer a giant ship (the cannabis industry) in a new direction, but the steering wheel is a bit rusty, and the crew isn’t quite sure which way to turn. It takes time, effort, and coordination to make those changes. However, there’s hope. Over the last few years, we’ve seen a steady shift as more states adopt cannabis-specific pathogen testing standards. 

Dr. Hom emphasizes the need for clinical-based evidence: “Without a foundational understanding of what could be out there, we are just guessing.” He envisions a cannabis-specific pathogen genomic database that would revolutionize the industry, providing the scientific evidence to drive informed regulations and protect public health. This database would be like a microbial map of the cannabis world, guiding us toward safer practices and informed consumption.

The cannabis industry has come a long way, but we cannot afford complacency. By prioritizing public health and embracing more rigorous testing standards, we can ensure a future where cannabis is both safe and enjoyable. After all, a responsible industry is a sustainable industry. 

Benjamin Sigman, MS, is an experienced cannabis testing analyst, an MBA student at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School, and an aspiring Cannapreneur!

The views and opinions expressed on this website do not necessarily reflect those of CannabizMD’s editorial staff or ownership.

Resources

For a further understanding of what contaminants and microbials are measured by testing cannabis products, visit CannabizMD post, “Cannabis Product Testing: Pass or Fail?” Download a COA (Certificate of Analysis) table here.

Gargani Y, Bishop P, Denning DW. Too many moldy joints – marijuana and chronic pulmonary aspergillosis. Mediterr J Hematol Infect Dis. 2011;3(1):e2011005. doi: 10.4084/MJHID.2011.005. Epub 2011 Jan 14. PMID: 21625309; PMCID: PMC3103256. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3103256/

Please refer to Medicinal Genomics website for further resources on cannabis pathogens and testing regulatory standards.: https://medicinalgenomics.com/recalls-and-regulations-unsafe-for-consumers-bad-news-for-g

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