PCR-based pathogen detection for Salmonella, E. coli, Aspergillus species, total yeast, and mold — protecting consumers and your production timeline.
Microbial contamination is not always visible — but it can halt distribution immediately if identified after retail release. Cannabis products can be exposed to molds, yeasts, and bacteria at multiple stages: during cultivation, drying, trimming, extraction, and packaging.
SQRD Lab applies validated PCR methods with enrichment broth to detect pathogens at low levels. We review results carefully before reporting, and communicate directly with your team when a finding warrants discussion before distribution decisions are made.
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) amplifies specific DNA sequences unique to each target pathogen. The enrichment broth step enhances sensitivity, ensuring even low-level contamination is reliably detected. This approach is both highly specific and rapidly completed.
High humidity during drying, inadequate airflow, improper curing conditions, and cross-contamination during trimming or packaging are common contributors. Even short periods of uncontrolled moisture can significantly elevate microbial counts.
Yes. Temperature fluctuations, elevated humidity, and improper packaging can allow microbial growth over time. Monitoring environmental controls throughout storage reduces unexpected findings at final testing.
Results near thresholds indicate environmental variability worth investigating. Reviewing drying protocols, facility sanitation, and airflow management often reveals the root cause and helps prevent future batches from exceeding action levels.
Maintaining controlled humidity, ensuring proper drying timelines, implementing sanitation procedures, and minimizing plant contact all lower contamination risk. Preventive controls are consistently more effective than reactive remediation after a failed test.
Beyond pass/fail status, review colony counts relative to action limits, compare with previous batches, and identify any trends that may point to environmental control issues within the facility.
Contact our Los Angeles laboratory to schedule pickup and get results within 48–72 hours.