CSQ CERTIFICATION
The CSQ Certification Program and applicable standards were built around ISO/IEC 17067
GMP Audits for Cannabis
Cannabis users who care about safety and want clean, safe products feel confident knowing that GMP's strict rules and high-quality checks ensure purity and protection from any potential harm.
2023 CANNABIS RECALLS
GMP STANDARDS COULD HELP PREVENT RECALLS
Experts suggest recalls could perhaps be prevented through improved cannabis lab standards as well as the use of a statewide track-and-trace system or certain standards such as Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).
THOMAS MITCHELL | 11.17.23Westword.com
MARIJUANA MOLD RECALL IMPACTS OVER 75 DISPENSARIES
Colorado's marijuana regulators have issued new health and safety orders over mold concerns, recalling marijuana products from over 75 dispensaries...
MATT RAWLINGS | 6.27.23KOIN 6
CANNABIS BATCHES RECALLED, DEEMED A 'RISK TO PUBLIC HEALTH'
Multiple batches of cannabis flower have been recalled after testing positive for aspergillus (mold) and heavy metals (cadmium and mercury), the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission announced Monday...
NICK MORDOWANEC | 12.12.23NEWSWEEK
CALIFORNIA MARIJUANA RECALL AFTER BANNED CHEMICALS FOUND
A California cannabis company has voluntarily recalled one of its products because it contains a pesticide that was banned in 2020...
SUKHJOT SAL | 7.14.23THE BULLETIN
TRACES OF ARSENIC FOUND IN BEND COMPANY'S CANNABIS PRODUCTS LEADS TO RECALL
A batch of “Blueberry Muffin” strain cannabis products produced by Bend Cannabis Co. has been recalled by the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission after testing positive for arsenic...
ARI SNIDER | 11.15.23MAINE PUBLIC
STATE TESTING FINDS 42% CONTAMINATION RATE IN MEDICAL MARIJUANA SAMPLES
In a first of its kind audit, investigators collected samples in August from 120 registered caregivers and dispensaries from across Maine.
Testing revealed a variety of contaminants, including yeast and mold, pesticides, and heavy metals...
SAFETY ON THE RISE
A GMP audit for your cannabis business showcases your commitment to customer safety, quality, and trust. It builds stronger customer relationships, provides a competitive edge, and ensures a secure future.
Even though not all customers actively seek GMP certification, the demand for safe, high-quality cannabis products is rising.
Prioritizing these standards allows your business to meet informed consumers' needs and benefit from ethical practices, securing your brand's reputation and long-term success.
WHAT IS A GMP AUDIT?
A GMP audit is an evaluation or inspection carried out to assess whether a facility, process, or organization complies with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards.
These audits are conducted by regulatory authorities, third-party auditors, or internal quality assurance teams to ensure that manufacturing practices meet established quality and safety standards.
GMP AUDIT IN THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY
GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) in the cannabis industry refers to a set of quality assurance guidelines and standards specifically tailored to the cultivation, processing, manufacturing, and distribution of cannabis and cannabis-derived products.
GMP principles are implemented to ensure that cannabis products are consistently produced and controlled according to quality standards suitable for their intended use, focusing on factors such as safety, quality, and efficacy.
Similar to GMP standards in other industries like pharmaceuticals or food production, GMP in the cannabis sector includes various aspects:
Facility Standards: Ensuring proper design, cleanliness, maintenance, and suitability of facilities for cannabis production.
Equipment: Implementing guidelines for proper maintenance, cleaning, and calibration of equipment used in cannabis cultivation or processing.
Personnel Training: Providing adequate training and qualifications for employees involved in cannabis production to ensure compliance with procedures and safety protocols.Record-Keeping: Maintaining accurate and comprehensive records of processes, procedures, and batch production to ensure traceability and accountability.
Quality Control: Establishing protocols for quality control measures and testing to ensure consistency, potency, and safety of cannabis products.
Sanitation and Hygiene: Implementing proper sanitation practices to prevent contamination and maintain product safety.
Packaging and Labeling: Setting standards for appropriate packaging materials and accurate labeling of cannabis products.
Compliance with GMP standards in the cannabis industry is crucial for businesses to demonstrate their commitment to producing safe, high-quality cannabis products. Adhering to GMP guidelines helps ensure regulatory compliance, consumer safety, and trust in the quality and reliability of cannabis products.
Regulatory bodies and third-party auditors often conduct GMP audits to verify compliance with these standards.
BENEFITS: CONSUMERS
ENHANCED SAFETY AND QUALITY:
- Reduced risk of contamination: GMP standards minimize the potential for harmful residues like pesticides, mold, or heavy metals to find their way into your cannabis products. This translates to a safer experience, free from unwanted contaminants that could cause health concerns.
- Consistent potency and effects: GMP practices ensure rigorous testing and standardized procedures, leading to reliable levels of cannabinoids and terpenes in your chosen product. This translates to predictable and consistent experiences, allowing you to tailor your use for desired effects.
- Transparency and trust: Undergoing a GMP audit demonstrates a company's commitment to quality and ethical practices. This transparency builds trust with you, the consumer, allowing you to make informed choices based on documented evidence of safe and responsible production.
IMPROVED USER EXPERIENCE:
- Peace of mind and confidence: Knowing your cannabis is GMP-certified gives you peace of mind, allowing you to relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about potential risks or inconsistencies.
- Wider product choice: As GMP certification gains traction, the availability of certified products increases. This gives you a wider range of high-quality options to choose from, catering to your specific needs and preferences.
- Empowered consumerism: By understanding the importance of GMP and demanding certified products, you play a crucial role in shaping the industry towards higher quality and safety standards. This empowers you as a consumer to actively participate in driving positive change within the cannabis market.
Overall, GMP certification for cannabis businesses translates to safer, more reliable, and ultimately, more enjoyable experiences for you as the user. It empowers you to make informed choices, promotes industry-wide quality standards, and fosters trust between consumers and businesses.
BENEFITS: COMPANIES
FINANCIAL ADVANTAGES:
- Reduced risk of financial losses: Minimizes the chances of costly product recalls, lawsuits, and fines due to non-compliance or contamination issues.
- Increased sales and market share: Stands out from competitors and attracts customers seeking quality and safety, potentially leading to higher revenue and market penetration.
- Improved operational efficiency: Streamlines production processes, reduces waste, and minimizes downtime, ultimately lowering production costs and increasing profitability.
- Enhanced investor confidence: Demonstrates commitment to ethical practices and responsible business management, attracting investments and securing better financing opportunities.
COMPETITIVE EDGE AND BRAND REPUTATION:
- Differentiation from competitors: Sets your company apart as a leader in quality and safety, establishing a strong brand image and building consumer trust.
- Competitive advantage in regulated markets: Becomes a crucial factor for winning licenses and contracts in jurisdictions with mandatory GMP compliance.
- Enhanced brand value: Commands higher market premiums for certified products, leading to increased brand value and long-term market advantage.
OPERATIONAL AND LEGAL BENEFITS:
- Simplified compliance with regulations: Ensures adherence to evolving quality standards and regulations, minimizing legal risks and simplifying compliance procedures.
- Improved internal quality control: Provides documented procedures and rigorous testing, reducing errors and inconsistencies in production.
- Reduced operational risk: Minimizes accidents, contamination risks, and product liability concerns, fostering a safer and more secure work environment.
- Streamlined audits and inspections: Smoothens interactions with regulatory authorities and simplifies the audit process.
PERSONAL BENEFITS FOR OWNERS:
- Peace of mind and reduced stress: Knowing your products are safe and compliant provides assurance and confidence in your business operations.
- Personal liability protection: Demonstrates due diligence and best practices, potentially mitigating personal liability in case of legal issues.
- Greater sense of accomplishment: Seeing your commitment to quality translate into successful business outcomes and satisfied customers provides personal satisfaction and pride.
Overall, GMP certification for cannabis companies translates to significant financial, reputational, operational, and personal benefits for owners. It's an investment that strengthens your business, protects your assets, and positions you for sustained success in the growing cannabis market.
Remember, the specific benefits can vary depending on your unique business, market, and goals. Consider how these advantages align with your vision and aspirations to make an informed decision about pursuing GMP certification for your cannabis company.
PREPARING FOR GMP AUDIT:
Here's a detailed guide on preparing for a cannabis GMP audit before the arrival of a third-party auditor:
1
Know the Standards:
Familiarize yourself with the specific GMP guidelines and regulations applicable to the cannabis industry. Understand the requirements set by local regulatory bodies and ensure compliance with these standards.
2
Document Organization:
Review and organize all documentation related to GMP compliance. This includes SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures), batch records, quality control protocols, sanitation procedures, personnel training records, and any other relevant documentation.
3
Facility Readiness:
Conduct a comprehensive assessment of the manufacturing facility to ensure it meets GMP standards. This involves maintaining cleanliness, proper sanitation, adequate lighting, ventilation, pest control, security measures, and suitable storage conditions for raw materials and finished products.
4
Equipment Verification:
Verify that all equipment used in the production, processing, and testing of cannabis products is well-maintained, calibrated, and validated. Keep detailed records of equipment maintenance and calibration.
5
Personnel Training:
Ensure that all employees involved in cannabis production have received proper training and understand their roles in complying with GMP regulations. Keep updated records of training programs.
6
Quality Control Implementation:
Implement robust quality control measures and testing protocols to ensure product consistency, potency, and safety. Regularly conduct testing and maintain detailed records of test results.
7
Mock Audits/Internal Audits:
Conduct internal audits or mock GMP audits to simulate the third-party audit process. Identify any gaps or deficiencies in compliance and take necessary corrective actions.
8
Corrective Action Plans:
Develop detailed plans for addressing any identified non-compliance issues. Implement corrective actions promptly to rectify deficiencies and establish preventive measures to prevent recurrence.
9
Supplier and Vendor Compliance:
Ensure that suppliers and vendors also comply with GMP standards. Maintain records of incoming materials, their quality, and their sources.
10
Preparation and Communication:
Communicate with the third-party auditing firm to understand their requirements and expectations for the audit. Prepare all necessary documents and resources that might be required during the audit.
11
Final Checks and Readiness:
Conduct a final check to ensure everything is in order before the third-party auditor arrives. Review all documentation, processes, and procedures to ensure compliance.
THE ASI DIFFERENCE
Here's why choosing ASI for your cannabis GMP audit is your best bet:
EXPERIENCED PROS: Decades in food & beverage audits, now bringing that expertise to cannabis.CUSTOM FIT: Tailored audits to your needs, no one-size-fits-all approach.
TOP-NOTCH TEAM: Qualified auditors & cannabis experts ensure a thorough and reliable assessment.
GLOBALLY RECOGNIZED: Our accreditation builds trust and opens doors.
PARTNER, NOT JUST AUDITOR: ASI supports you beyond the audit, helping you thrive.
