When it comes to the cannabis industry, several factors play a key role in the success of the product. The safety, flavor, and freshness of the product are top priorities when it comes to the quality of cannabis. The moisture content of the cannabis flower is the main driver in the overall quality, safety, and maximum shelf-life possible of a retail cannabis product.
Since moisture is an important factor in quality control, manufacturers and consumers alike must fully understand moisture content and how it can affect shelf life, storage, and product safety. In this article, we will examine moisture content, how it can be tested, and the ideal moisture levels.
Not only will you learn the details of moisture content, testing, and ideals, but we will also examine the effects of moisture levels that are too high and those that are too low. Being aware of the importance of proper moisture content, the second most important aspect is providing the proper storage to maintain the freshness, flavor, efficacy, and safety of the product.
Understanding Moisture Content in Cannabis
What is Moisture Content
The moisture content of a cannabis product is the amount of water in a cannabis flower sample that is reported as a percentage of the total weight of water compared to the total weight of the sample.
Moisture content is an important tool that helps the manufacturer evaluate their processing techniques and is also an indicator of when a flower is done curing or drying.
Moisture content is also used in calculating THC levels and the content analysis of other cannabinoids.
Moisture levels are an important test to verify a product’s quality, helping manufacturers and consumers determine if the product is effective and safe.
How Moisture Content is Measured
Moisture content can be measured in several different ways:
1. Low-temperature ovens can be used to dry out the cannabis sample and then measure the weight difference before and after the drying process.
2. Using a wood moisture meter, cannabis moisture content can be determined by using the softwood setting and pressing the sample against the touchpad. This is not an ideal test for commercial products.
3. A fast and reliable way of testing moisture content is by using a bench-top moisture analysis machine.
Precise measurement of moisture content is critical for the following reasons:
- The precise measurement of moisture content is important in ensuring product quality. Having ideal moisture levels helps to maintain the potency, flavor, and aroma of cannabis, preserving cannabinoids and terpenes.
- Ensuring that moisture levels are not too high helps to eliminate the possibility of mold and bacteria growth, making sure the product is safe for the consumer.
- Many regions, including California, require that moisture content is tested and placed on the certificate of analysis. This ensures compliance with regulations. Cannabis testing services in Los Angeles, for example, should follow California regulations guaranteeing compliance within the state.
- Consistent moisture percentages provide a reliable experience for the consumer by providing a product with uniform quality and effects.
Ideal Moisture Levels in Cannabis
Moisture standards can vary from state to state but are typically between 6-15% moisture. The ideal moisture levels are between 10-12%.
Having optimal moisture levels helps the plant retain its aroma, chemical properties, and efficacy, enhancing the cannabinoid and terpene levels.
Maintaining ideal moisture levels and not exceeding 15% helps to prevent the growth of mold, mildew, bacteria, and fungi.
Stored properly at optimal moisture levels, also extends the shelf life, averaging between 6-12 months.
Effects of Improper Moisture Levels
Too High
High moisture content will cause the flower to not burn properly and taste bad to the consumer.
As previously mentioned, moisture levels that exceed 15% are at risk for mold, mildew, and bacterial growth. Not only does this present danger to the consumer, but the business can take hits from product loss and damage to its reputation.
Too Low
Cannabis with lower-than-ideal moisture content becomes brittle and harsh, and without the proper moisture, terpenes and cannabinoids will degrade, making the product less effective.
Proper Storage for Maintaining Freshness and Safety
Storage plays an important role in the shelf-life and freshness of cannabis. The use of airtight containers will help hold moisture in and prevent it from prematurely drying out. Humidity-controlling packaging is also available for maintaining moisture. Light exposure, temperatures, and humidity must be controlled to maximize shelf life, quality, and safety.
With a better understanding of moisture content, you can see how it plays a key role in the overall quality of the product, impacting freshness, flavor, safety, and shelf life. If you are a manufacturer striving for consistent quality or a consumer seeking the best possible experience, understanding and maintaining moisture levels is essential. From precise testing methods to optimal storage practices, every step promotes the retention of potency, aroma, and safety standards. By keeping moisture levels within the ideal range and investing in proper storage, cannabis products can deliver the quality and reliability that both businesses and consumers expect. With this knowledge, manufacturers can enhance their processes, and consumers can make informed choices, delivering a superior and safe cannabis experience for everyone.
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