Water Activity & Moisture Content

For cultivators, these figures reflect directly on the post-harvest process: how long the product was dried, at what temperature, and under what humidity conditions. A batch with an Aw reading above the acceptable limit has not finished curing, regardless of how it presents visually. Tracking both across harvests builds a measurable record, and variability between lots points to specific stages where conditions are not being held reliably.

A product that clears testing can still degrade if storage and transport conditions shift afterward. A batch with an Aw reading close to the upper limit is more vulnerable to humidity fluctuations during distribution. Knowing the precise figure supports informed decisions about packaging, storage conditions, and how quickly the product needs to move.

We use a calibrated water activity meter with verified reference standards. Total water content is measured using a validated gravimetric method. All figures are reviewed by laboratory personnel before the Certificate of Analysis is issued and are traceable back to the specific sample and submission.

When a reading exceeds the limit, the batch cannot proceed until the issue is resolved. An out-of-range result typically indicates the product needs further curing rather than disposal; retesting after corrective action provides a documented record. The COA includes both figures, with individual pass/fail determinations, to support any subsequent review or action.

What Each Submission Covers

Each submission includes the following as part of the Certificate of Analysis:

• Water activity (Aw) value measured against a calibrated reference standard
• Moisture content expressed as a percentage by weight
• Pass/fail determination against state regulatory thresholds for both values
• COA formatted for regulatory submission and supply chain documentation

Products Covered by This Panel

This panel applies to cannabis products where free moisture levels affect safety, shelf life, or regulatory standing. Thresholds and risk profiles vary by product type.

• Flower: state-required before any lot can enter the supply chain. Moisture content and water activity are each assessed independently. The figures also serve as a direct indicator of curing quality, giving cultivators data to act on between harvests.
• Pre-Rolls: subject to the same requirements as loose flower. Inconsistent fill density or blending from multiple lots can affect how moisture is distributed throughout the product, making independent screening of the finished item necessary.
• Edibles: For infused products, water activity data is often used to evaluate microbial stability and shelf-life considerations in addition to regulatory requirements. The Aw value determines whether a product will support microbial growth over its intended shelf life, making it relevant to both compliance and product integrity.
• Beverages: cannabis-infused beverages carry specific considerations given their liquid base. Water activity data supports both regulatory compliance and shelf-life validation for this format. Because infused beverages contain significant water content by design, water activity data is often considered alongside formulation controls, preservatives, pH, and shelf-life studies.