Licensed testing laboratories are subject to proficiency testing as implemented by the Ohio Department of Commerce (
O.A.C. 3796:4-2-02). The Department is implementing a proficiency testing program that may include any of the following:
Voluntary proficiency testing: Laboratories will agree to undergo proficiency testing on materials obtained from an agreed-upon third party, and will be made aware of the timing and frequency of the tests.
Mandatory proficiency testing: Laboratories will undergo proficiency testing mandated and administered by the Department, and will be made aware of the timing and frequency of the tests.
Blind proficiency testing: Laboratories will undergo proficiency testing on previously tested samples and/or known standards, but will not be made aware of when or how frequently.
The Department is NOT approving additional solvents for use in the manufacture of medical marijuana products at this time.
However, in the event that solvent contaminants other than N-butane, isobutane, heptane, propane, or ethanol be detected in laboratory analysis, the levels may not exceed human protective thresholds identified in the ICH Guideline Q3C on Impurities: Guidelines for Residual Solvents.
Laboratories detecting significant and/or frequent presence of solvents other than N-butane, isobutane, heptane, propane, or ethanol should report the matter to MMCP staff immediately.
Failed Product Guidance Reminder
If upon analysis by a licensed testing laboratory,a sample is deemed to have failed tests for pesticides, heavy metals, mycotoxins, or residual solvents, the cultivator or processor that provided the sample must immediately destroy the corresponding batch or lot of medical marijuana in accordance with their existing approved waste disposal protocols and document the destruction in the inventory tracking system. See O.A.C. 3796:4-2-04.
Licensees are not permitted to retain in their inventory any plant material or manufactured products deemed to have failed laboratory analysis.
If a sample of plant material fails tests for microbial contamination, the corresponding batch of plant material may be destroyed immediately or may be designated for extraction by hydrocarbon or carbon dioxide-based methods in accordance with O.A.C. 3796:4-2-04(F).
Plant material that has failed tests for microbial contamination is not eligible for sale to a dispensary.
