What is CAT3 cannabis standard

CAT 3 (Category 3) cannabis standard refers to a rigorous testing standard for cannabis products, ensuring they meet high safety and quality benchmarks, particularly in California's regulated market. CAT 3 standards are part of the California Code of Regulations (Title 16, Division 42) and typically apply to cannabis products intended for human consumption, whether inhaled, ingested, or applied topically.

Key Aspects of CAT 3 Cannabis Testing:

1. Pesticides:

   • Products must test below allowable limits for a wide array of pesticides.

   • Includes screening for contaminants like myclobutanil, carbaryl, and bifenthrin.

   Microbial Contaminants:

   • Tests for bacteria (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli) and fungi (e.g., Aspergillus species).

   • Ensures products are free from harmful pathogens.

   Heavy Metals:

   • Screening for lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic.

   • Must meet strict limits to avoid toxicity risks.

   Residual Solvents:

   • For products made with solvents (e.g., concentrates), CAT 3 standards ensure residual solvents like butane, ethanol, or hexane are below acceptable levels.

   Mycotoxins:

   • Tests for toxic substances produced by fungi, such as aflatoxins.

   Foreign Materials:

   • Screening for physical contaminants like hair, mold, glass, or other foreign matter.

   Terpene and Cannabinoid Profiles (optional but common):

   • Testing for THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids, as well as terpenes, is often included for product labeling accuracy.

Why CAT 3 Standards Matter:

• Consumer Safety: Protects users from potentially harmful contaminants.

• Regulatory Compliance: Products must pass CAT 3 testing to be legally sold in California's regulated market.

• Transparency: Ensures that consumers have access to clear, accurate information about the product's content and quality.

Products that fail CAT 3 testing cannot legally be sold and must either be remediated (if possible) or destroyed. These standards help maintain a high level of trust and safety within the cannabis industry