These labs not only determine the condition and viability of cannabinoids, water content, heavy metals, pesticides,[2] terpenes, yeast, but also the presence of mold, mycotoxins, and solvents.
Since 2012, ten states (Colorado, Oregon, Washington, Alaska, California, Nevada, Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, and, in November 2018, by popular referendum, Michigan) and the District of Columbia have legalized recreational cannabis consumption and, except for the District of Columbia and Vermont, acted to implement legislation that also legalizes commercial production.
Additionally, a number of states, as far back as the 1960s, have decriminalized the possession of small quantities of cannabis for personal use.
Limited regulation threatens product safety in the "gold rush" era of a fast-growing cannabis industry.
Analytical chemistry and microbiology testing that protects consumer safety and prevents unfair practices becomes an added cost that most startups avoid due to the lack of oversight of recreational and medicinal cannabis in the United States.