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As cannabis recalls for mold and pesticide contamination become more widespread, marijuana cultivators and product manufacturers are adopting strict manufacturing standards to establish trust with consumers.
One way to maintain clean, standardized cannabis is implementing a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) approach, which ensures that products meet safety, quality and regulatory standards.
What is GMP in the cannabis industry?
GMP is a set of guidelines that ensures finished products are consistent and meet specific quality standards.
Already common in the food and pharmaceutical industries, GMP guidelines are now being applied in cannabis cultivation and manufacturing sectors.
Regulators in Australia and Europe already require cannabis manufacturers to adhere to GMP principles.
While GMP certification of cannabis products is not currently available in the United States because cannabis remains a Schedule I substance, GMP certification is likely to become a standard expectation for cannabis businesses worldwide.
Core components of GMP for cannabis
The GMP-certification process includes strict protocols for facility design, staff training, equipment maintenance and quality control.
Six key components include:
1. Standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Establishing a set of standard operating procedures (SOPs) is at the heart of GMP compliance for cannabis manufacturers.
SOPs should cover every stage of cannabis product manufacturing, from bucking and trimming to packaging, ensuring that each step is documented by staff members.
2. Personnel and training
GMP standards require that all training sessions are documented for personnel involved in cannabis processing, ensuring that employees understand the importance of sanitation, quality control and safe handling practices.
3. Facility design and maintenance
GMP guidelines specify that facility layouts should allow for easy cleaning of equipment, minimizing the risk of cross-contamination.
Construction materials should be non-toxic and resistant to corrosion; regular inspections and equipment maintenance also are necessary.
4. Cleaning and sanitation
One of the most critical aspects of GMP compliance is having a written schedule to ensure facilities and equipment are properly cleaned and sanitized.
Regular cleaning and equipment calibration safeguard product quality and minimize the risk of safety issues.
5. Quality control and testing
Cannabis producers must implement rigorous testing protocols to verify the quality and safety of their products.
This includes testing for potency as well as the presence of contaminants such as pesticides or mold.
GMP-compliant facilities also use batch records to document the history of each product, although most cannabis companies are required to use state-mandated seed-to-sale tracking programs that provide the same information.
6. Packaging and labeling
Cannabis packaging and labeling materials should protect products from contamination, and labeling must provide accurate information about dosage, ingredients, expiration dates and storage.
GMP also requires that materials be stored and distributed in a way that maintains product integrity.
Why GMP certification matters
For cannabis cultivators, GMP certification ensures products are safe and consistent, which is crucial for consumer safety and regulatory compliance.
Businesses that offer GMP-certified products also have a competitive advantage, as a growing number of retailers and regulators require proof of SOPs before engaging with vendors.
Furthermore, GMP certification builds consumer trust by demonstrating a commitment to quality and safety.
How to achieve GMP certification
Achieving GMP certification for a product requires a comprehensive approach to facility management, personnel training, process validation and quality control.
Cannabis manufacturers must:
- Develop and implement SOPs for the post-harvest stages of cannabis production.
- Train staff on GMP standards and maintain detailed training records.
- Design and maintain facilities that meet GMP requirements for cleanliness and safety.
- Regularly test products and monitor equipment to ensure quality.
- Follow stringent packaging, labeling and distribution protocols.
While GMP certification of cannabis products is currently unavailable in the United States, manufacturers can have their facilities inspected for compliance with GMP standards to learn what changes are needed when certification becomes available.
Even if formal GMP certification of a product is not sought, cannabis manufacturers that adopt GMP principles can improve operations, reduce risks and better meet expectations to differentiate their business in an increasingly competitive market.
Eteros, producer of the Mobius Trimmer, offers a free guide for cultivators interested in GMP-certified cannabis trimming as well as a blog post about the topic.
Check out the blog Mobius Insights for information about cultivation facility design, materials preparation, cannabis waste disposal and more.
