Ensure the integrity of your product with shelf-life studies
With a shelf-life study, we can help you isolate areas of concern and evaluate product stability. Any of the SC Labs test services may be monitored during a shelf-life study, and we can help you design a study for your individual product and needs.
Why is shelf-life testing important?
Understanding product shelf life is an important step in safeguarding your product from potential deterioration and spoilage. Despite considerable efforts to deliver a finished product that meets your state’s testing standards, prolonged time on retail shelves can change or degrade the performance and quality attributes of your product.
- Real-time or accelerated studies to evaluate potency, terpenes, microbiology, mycotoxins, metals, solvents, and more.
- Target multiple cannabis/hemp product types and finished products.
- Screen and evaluate compatibility of formulations or intended packaging.
- Equipped with advanced laboratory instruments and proven test processes.
- Expert scientists and support representatives available to assist in interpreting results and assessing risks.
Recommended Studies by Test Type
The type of test and acceptance criteria you select may vary based on several factors. To tailor a shelf-life study for your needs, please contact an SC Labs representative.
| Test | Recommended Acceptance Criteria | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Cannabinoids and/or Terpenoids (Infused) | +/- 10% from week 0 | Ensure the cannabinoid potency of the product |
| Cannabinoids and/or Terpenoids (Concentrate) | +/- 10% from week 0 | Ensure the cannabinoid potency of the product |
| Cannabinoids and/or Terpenoids (Flower/Fresh Leaf) | +/- 10% from week 0 | Ensure the cannabinoid potency of the product |
| Cannabinoids (Pure Terpenes/Essential Oils) | +/- 10% from week 0 | Ensure the cannabinoid potency of the product |
| Terpenoids (Pure Terpenes/Essential Oils) | If terpene content is labelled, testing can ensure integrity | |
| Mycotoxins | CA Regulatory Limits | Mycotoxins can form during storage |
| Residual Solvents | Comprehensive Test Panel – National Hemp | Residual solvents can be imparted from packaging | |
| Residual Solvents | Standard Test Panel – California | CA Regulatory Limits | Residual solvents can be imparted from packaging |
| Heavy Metals | Only recommended for samples stored with metal (vape cartridges) | Metals can be imparted from storage in contact with metals |
| Microbiology (any individual test) | Microbial growth can occur during storage | |
| Microbiology | Comprehensive Test Panel – National Hemp | Microbial growth can occur during storage | |
| Microbiology | Expanded Test Panel | Microbial growth can occur during storage | |
| Microbiology | Standard Test Panel | Microbial growth can occur during storage | |
| Microbiology | 6-Organism Test Panel (Inhalable) | CA Regulatory Limits | Microbial growth can occur during storage |
| Microbiology | 2-Organism Test Panel (Non-Inhalable) | CA Regulatory Limits | Microbial growth can occur during storage |
| Water Activity | CA Regulatory Limits | Water activity can change during storage |
| Moisture Content | +/- 10% from week 0 | Moisture can change during storage |
SC Labs does not recommend the following for shelf-life studies:
- Pesticides: Unlikely to form during storage
- Vitamin E (Concentrate): It is not known that vitamin E can form during storage
Let’s talk about your testing needs
Our experts are always ready to answer your questions.