Heavy Metals

Overview

Cannabis plants are uniquely adept bioremediators. This means they pull elements from their growth medium (soil, water, etc.) at a high rate. As a result, heavy metals can bioaccumulate in the plant structures that are consumed or used in the production of concentrated cannabis products and infused edibles or topicals. Screening products for heavy metals helps enhance consumer safety. The presence and concentration of each metal is reported in micrograms.

Testing Method

Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)

Scope of Test

• Arsenic
• Cadmium
• Lead
• Mercury