Loss on drying analysis for cannabis

Loss on drying measures the amount of volatile matter, primarily moisture, present in cannabis materials. Moisture levels influence product stability, shelf life, weight accuracy and microbial risk.

Pharmacopeial compliance: USP <731> & EP <2.2.32> We align our moisture analysis protocols with both the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) and the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.) to provide a standardised determination of volatile matter in cannabis products. 

Methodology: Analysis performed according to USP <731> and Ph. Eur. 2.2.32 (Loss on Drying).

Purpose: This test determines the amount of volatile matter—including water and organic solvents—removed under specified conditions. It is a critical quality metric for ensuring product stability, preventing microbial growth, and performing accurate "dry weight" potency calculations. 

Specialised loss on drying (LOD) methods

Our laboratory has developed specialised methods to accommodate different product matrices and specific regulatory requirements:

Botanical & standard analysis (EXPTM 757): 

  • Ph. Eur. 2.2.32 / USP <731> Parameters: Conducted at 40°C for 24 hours under reduced pressure (NMT 2kPa).
  • Application: Ideal for dried flower and biomass where maintaining low temperatures is essential to preserve the integrity of the sample while removing volatile components.

Edibles & finished products:

  • CHM.021: A validated method specifically designed for the complex matrices of edible cannabis products.
  • Standard LOD (EP <2.2.32>): General moisture content determination for routine quality control. 


Additional services

Moisture & product quality assessment 

  • Moisture content and variability
  • Potential for microbial growth or degradation
  • Product suitability for storage and distribution

Quality control & regulatory support 

  • Quality assurance and batch release programs
  • Internal specifications and trend analysis
  • Investigations of product consistency or deviations
  • Regulatory submissions and compliance documentation

Integrated cannabis testing services 

Get in touch

Would you like to learn more about our loss on drying analysis for cannabis services or do you require tailored testing support? Contact our experts today to discuss your testing needs.

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