The Future of PCR Testing

As the cannabis industry continues to grow, the regulations aimed at ensuring product safety and quality are growing, too. Mold contamination, particularly from species like Aspergillus, remains a paramount concern for cultivators and
regulators alike. While some states mandate PCR testing for Aspergillus, others only impose Total Yeast and Mold (TYM) testing requirements.

No matter which testing requirement governs your locale, you need to understand how to pass the tests. Maintaining the health of your crop ensures your business will thrive under all future regulations. It’s time to study!

1. What is TYM testing?

Total Yeast and Mold (TYM) testing indicates yeast and mold contamination present in a cannabis sample.

2. What is PCR testing?

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing detects the DNA of each specific species in a cannabis sample.

3. How do I know which test to use?

TYM tests are often regarded as poor indicators of the safety of cannabis products because they are unable to differentiate between pathogenic, beneficial, and benign yeasts and molds. Cannabis has a diverse microbiome of beneficial microbes that are not harmful to humans, and many cultivators use beneficial fungi like Trichoderma to provide nutrients and help protect the plants from disease during the grow cycle. For these reasons, PCR testing is becoming the preferred solution.

4. What types of PCR testing are best for my facility?

Samples for PCR testing are collected from any or all involved sources:

• Plant Tissue – direct cutting of the plant itself
• Air – collected by an indoor air sampling device
• Liquid – any liquid in contact with the plant
• Surfaces – swab any surface in contact with the plant (racks, trays, bins, tables, tools, etc.)
• Growing Media – a small amount of the growing medium (soil, etc.)

Analyzed samples provide results that allow growers to immediately define and efficiently implement the optimal IPM (Integrated Pest Management) strategy that is tailored to their environment. The specificity that PCR testing provides
helps growers target and destroy all pathogenic threats, ensuring each harvest reaches its full potential. Passing PCR tests practically guarantees your facility produces the healthiest plants delivering the highest quality cannabis products
on the market.

Next up: the release of the latest whitepaper detailing the scalable chlorine dioxide protection to help you pass your PCR and TYM tests consistently.

Here’s to earning the A+ your grow deserves!

-Dr. B