Representative and Random Sampling of Cannabis Matrices

Presented by Kim Watson, Strategic Env. Management
Contact Information: [email protected]

ABSTRACT

Why should we care about sample collection and obtaining samples of known quality when collecting samples for Cannabis analytical testing? Because analytical data is only as good as the quality of the sample from which the data is obtained; our main goal is to obtain defensible samples for the protection of public health and welfare. Therefore, it is essential that we consider the importance of the sampling plan and process. Most importantly we will discuss basic concepts in representative and random sampling. The characteristics of a “good sample” will be discussed and the differences between a “sample”, a “representative sample”, and a “defensible sample”. We will discuss Cannabis Sampling Protocols and statistically designed sampling plans to control sampling error and importance of sampler training to demonstrate sampling competence for sampling usable marijuana and cannabinoid concentrates extracts and products.