Mycotoxins

Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain types of moulds found in cannabis and other plant materials.

Also called / Category:

Fungal toxins, toxic moulds / Lab Testing & QA/QC

Key takeaways:

• Mycotoxins can be harmful to human health if consumed in large quantities.
• They are usually tested for in cannabis to ensure safety and quality.
• Common mycotoxins include aflatoxins and ochratoxins.
• Stringent regulations in Canada help limit mycotoxin levels in cannabis products.

What it is / How it shows up:

Mycotoxins are typically mentioned in Certificates of Analysis provided by cannabis labs. These toxic compounds are produced by moulds that can grow on cannabis plants under certain conditions, such as high humidity and improper storage. Common mycotoxins include aflatoxins and ochratoxins, which are known for their potential to cause health issues if ingested in significant amounts. In Canada, cannabis products are tested for mycotoxins to ensure they meet safety standards before reaching consumers. Understanding mycotoxin levels is crucial for maintaining product quality and consumer safety.

How it’s measured or identified:

• Lab tests on cannabis samples assess mycotoxin levels.
• High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is often used for detection.
• Results are recorded in Certificates of Analysis.

Use in context:

• "Our cannabis is free from harmful mycotoxins, ensuring safe consumption."
• "The lab results indicate low levels of mycotoxins, complying with Canadian regulations."
• "Always check the Certificate of Analysis for mycotoxin levels before purchasing."

Safety & compliance in Canada:

• offset-4 transition-colors hover:underline" title="Learn more about Health Canada">Health Canada regulates mycotoxin levels in cannabis products.
• Regular testing ensures products are safe for public consumption.

Related terms / See also:

• Aflatoxins/ochratoxin
• 11-Hydroxy-THC
• Acidic cannabinoids
• Beneficial microbes
• Batch/lot

FAQs:

What are mycotoxins?

Mycotoxins are toxic substances produced by moulds that can grow on cannabis plants under certain conditions. They are harmful to human health if ingested in large amounts.

Why is testing for mycotoxins important?

Testing for mycotoxins ensures that cannabis products are safe for consumption by identifying and quantifying these toxins to meet regulatory standards.

Are mycotoxins regulated in Canada?

Yes, Health Canada regulates the levels of mycotoxins in cannabis products to ensure consumer safety and product quality.

Sources:

• Health Canada
• PubChem
• Cannabis Quality Assurance Program