Potency Testing
Measurement of cannabinoid concentrations for regulatory compliance and product labeling.
Learn MoreResidual Solvent Testing
Detection of residual solvents remaining from extraction and processing.
How the Analysis Works
Residual Solvent Testing
Residual solvent testing determines whether extraction and manufacturing solvents remain in a cannabis product after processing and, if so, at what concentration.
Some products are made using solvents to separate desired compounds from plant material. After extraction, those solvents are removed through purging, refinement, or other processing steps. This test checks whether remaining residues are present and whether detected levels are within acceptable limits for compliance and safety review.
Residual solvent analysis is typically performed using validated gas chromatography methods capable of identifying and quantifying volatile compounds at low concentrations.
Depending on the extraction method used, the panel may screen for solvents such as butane, propane, ethanol, heptane, hexane, acetone, and other regulated compounds commonly used during extraction, refinement, or formulation.
Commonly Used For:
- Concentrates and extracts
- Distillate, resin, and extracted oils
- Vape formulations made with extracted inputs
- Infused goods made with extracted oil
- Supplier-provided extracts or intermediate materials
Why Residual Solvents Receive Regulatory Attention
Residual solvents are regulated because some compounds can remain in the finished product if extraction or post-processing steps are incomplete. While extraction solvents are useful for separating cannabinoids and other target compounds from plant material, they are not intended to remain in the final product above established limits.
The concern is particularly relevant for inhalable products such as vape oils and concentrates, where compounds are heated and delivered directly through inhalation rather than digestion. Testing verifies that extraction and refinement processes have removed solvents to acceptable levels before the product reaches consumers.
This Service is Important When:
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Solvents are used during extraction or refinement
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A concentrate is being prepared for inhalable use
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Cannabis oil is used as an ingredient in edibles, vapes, tinctures, or topicals
Product Types and Testing Considerations
Residual solvent testing is typically used for materials that have gone through solvent-based extraction, refinement, or formulation. The submitted sample may be an in-process material, a manufacturing input, or a finished item prepared for release.
Common sample types include:
- Concentrates and extracts
- Distillate, resin, and extracted oils
- Vape cartridges and vape formulations
- Infused edibles and beverages made with extracted oil
- Tinctures and topicals
- Supplier-provided extracts or intermediate materials
For this service, the key question is not only what the item is, but whether a solvent was used at any stage of production. During intake, the extraction method, formulation type, and requested panel may be reviewed to confirm the appropriate testing approach.
What This Testing Includes
- Targeted analysis for residual solvents such as butane, propane, ethanol, heptane, hexane, acetone, or other required compounds based on the selected panel
- Matrix-specific preparation for concentrates, distillates, resins, vape oils, infused goods, and other extracted materials
- Review-ready reporting that identifies detected solvent levels and supports comparison against applicable limits
- Data to help evaluate extraction, purging, refinement, or supplier-input concerns when results require follow-up
- Documentation to support batch release, COA generation, internal quality records, and product approval
Expected Timing for Results
Because this testing often involves concentrates, oils, or formulated products, sample preparation can vary depending on the matrix and solvent panel requested. Some materials are straightforward to prepare, while infused products or complex formulations may require additional handling before analysis.
Expected timing is reviewed during intake once the product type, requested panel, and release needs are confirmed. Operators working against a production deadline should contact the lab before submitting samples so current availability, sample requirements, and scheduling options can be discussed.
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