Advancing Cannabis Safety: The Role of Quantitative Microbial Methods in Testing

On December 8, 2025, Cannabis Science and Technology will host a pivotal webinar focused on the future of cannabis quality assurance, emphasizing advancements in microbial testing. This event aims to address the critical need for harmonized international standards to ensure consumer safety and product quality across both medicinal and adult-use cannabis markets. With the growing global cannabis industry, establishing robust testing methods is paramount to maintaining product integrity and consumer trust

The webinar will feature insights from key industry experts, including Veronica Kays from AOAC INTERNATIONAL and Dr. Kristofer Marsh from Smithers Cannabis Testing Services. Veronica Kays, who leads the Cannabis Analytical Science Program at AOAC, brings a wealth of experience in quality control and standardization. Her role is crucial in advancing consensus-based analytical methods that are essential for the cannabis industry. Dr. Marsh, with his extensive background in cannabis testing across multiple U.S. states, will provide a detailed comparison of technologies used in microbial quantitative analysis, highlighting their effectiveness and applicability in cannabis testing

The importance of microbial testing in cannabis cannot be overstated, as it plays a significant role in ensuring that products are safe for consumption. As the industry expands, so does the complexity of its regulatory landscape. "Harmonized standards are essential for ensuring that all cannabis products meet high safety and quality benchmarks," said Veronica Kays. This sentiment is echoed by many in the industry who recognize the need for international cooperation and standardization to facilitate trade and protect consumers

This webinar is expected to have significant implications for the cannabis industry, potentially influencing regulatory practices and quality assurance protocols worldwide. By comparing key technologies for microbial analysis, the event aims to equip stakeholders with the knowledge needed to implement effective testing strategies. The insights shared could lead to more stringent safety measures and better consumer protection, ultimately enhancing the credibility and reliability of cannabis products in the market

Looking ahead, the push for global standardization in cannabis testing is likely to continue as more countries legalize cannabis for medicinal and recreational use. The collaboration between scientific organizations like AOAC and industry leaders such as Smithers is crucial in driving this change. As stakeholders gather insights from this webinar, the cannabis industry may see a shift towards more unified testing protocols, ensuring that products are consistently safe and of high quality. This evolution in testing practices will be essential for sustaining consumer confidence and supporting the industry's growth