Some in the industry are trying to fake the numbers
It’s not difficult to determine the level of potency associated with different strains of marijuana. Web searches are able to spit out the level of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in virtually any strain, for example. However, a consumer expects that the information they receive from any source, especially in marijuana dispensaries, is accurate and legitimate. Unfortunately, some in Oregon feel that they don’t have to play by the rules and are fudging the numbers.
According to David Todd, who owns and operates craft cannabis company Glasco Farms, “I have had labs ask me what I want my potency numbers to look like and make an offer. It’s insane- I want to stand behind my product and show through scientific fact that I produce a superior flower.”
Another producer, who didn’t want to be identified, asserted, “The only sure way to get my product on the shelf at a profitable price is with THC 25% or above. Not a lot of strains have that potential, but the market has plenty with 28% to 32% floating around so I have to go with the same labs as the rest of the independent farmers to get the best numbers I can. The lab I use … return(s) good numbers.”
The only way the issue can be controlled is if standards are enforced, which currently isn’t happening. There are laws that are meant to regulate how cannabis is sampled, tested and analyzed, but no one is testing the testers.
To be fair, the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission has taken some steps to try and clean up the activity. It has already revoked the wholesale licenses of some producers for violating laws, but more needs to be done. The illegal and unethical practice is not only dangerous to the consumer, it’s detrimental to the entire industry.
