New Mexico Cannabis Testing Labs
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Does New Mexico License Independent Cannabis Testing Labs?
Yes. New Mexico issues state licenses to independent testing laboratories authorizing them to test cannabis for safety pursuant to the provisions of the Cannabis Regulation Act (CRA). Licenses for cannabis testing laboratories are issued by the Cannabis Control Division of the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department (NMRLD).
Requirements for Marijuana Testing Labs in New Mexico
According to the New Mexico Licensing Requirements for Laboratories, cannabis testing labs are required to acquire commercial reference standards for testing cannabinoids and other contaminants or chemicals. ISO/IEC 17025 is a widely accepted standard for testing laboratories for competence in cannabis testing. It demonstrates a lab's commitment to quality management, technical competence, and reliable testing procedures. Hence, cannabis testing labs in New Mexico are advised to be accredited by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 17025 by a recognized third-party accrediting agency. An ISO 17025 is also useful in passing the Initial Demonstration of Capability test required for cannabis testing labs as indicated in the Licensing and Operational Requirements for Cannabis Establishments.
Furthermore, a cannabis testing laboratory will be required to submit a Continuing Demonstration of Capability (CDC) for each test performed annually as part of the laboratory's application for licensure renewal. The CDC may consist of evidence that the cannabis testing laboratory has the test within its current scope of accreditation to the current standards of ISO/IEC 17025, Testing and Calibration Laboratories. The CDC also provides evidence that each analyst performing the test has successfully completed, within the previous year, relevant proficiency testing administered by a provider accredited to the standards of ISO/IEC 17043, Conformity Assessment—General Requirements for Proficiency Testing.
New Mexico Required Tests for Cannabis Products
Per Section 16.8.2.43 of the New Mexico Administrative Code, cannabis testing labs may be required to perform analytical testing of cannabis products in one or more of the following categories:
- Visual Inspection
- Microbiological contaminant analysis
- Residual solvents
- Potency and homogeneity
- Heavy metals
- Pesticides
- Other testing categories that the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department may require
How Do New Mexico Marijuana Testing Labs Submit and Report Test Results?
There are no specific instructions on the process of submitting laboratory testing results in New Mexico. However, the state's cannabis testing regulations require laboratories to report lab test results to the Cannabis Control Division.
How Much Does It Cost to Test Cannabis in New Mexico?
There are no standard costs for cannabis tests in New Mexico. Lab test costs for cannabis samples depend on the volume of the sample, test type, the laboratory chosen, and other factors. You may contact any licensed cannabis testing lab in the state for specific costs for cannabis tests.
What Happens to Cannabis Products That Fail Lab Tests in New Mexico?
According to Section 16.8.7.15 of the Quality Control, Inspection, and Testing of Cannabis Products regulations, if a cannabis sample fails a laboratory test, a cannabis establishment may remediate and retest the batch. Cannabis products that have been remediated must undergo any test that was previously failed. A cannabis product that fails a test and cannot be remediated and any remediated cannabis product that fails any test after remediation must be destroyed.
List of Cannabis Testing Labs in New Mexico
The Cannabis Control Division does not list licensed cannabis testing labs in the state on its website. However, there are at least 5 cannabis testing labs in New Mexico, including Bluebonnet Labs, Rio Grande Analytics, Scepter Labs, and Argon Labs.