National Agriculture Commodity Board
A collaboration between Health Canada licensed labs, academic cannabis researchers, and farm members on proficiency trials.
Cannabis farmers and retailers rely on lab numbers for THC, CBD, microbials, and terpenes, but methods differ by lab. Inflated potency claims and unclear microbial or terpene context weaken trust, complicate compliance work, and confuse consumers at sale.
NFCF's Trusted Labs Partnership runs inter-lab proficiency trials on THC, CBD, terpenes, and microbials. Health Canada licenced labs compare methods and results, then publish shared benchmarks and plain-language guidance for cannabis farmers and retailers.
Lab metrics shape consumer trust, yet THC and CBD results still vary across methods and reporting practices. Terpenes add context on aroma and flavour, while microbial screens protect product safety. When labs disagree, cannabis farmers face re-testing costs, delayed releases, and pressure to chase higher potency numbers. The industry needs shared proficiency benchmarks and plain-language education.
NFCF convenes Health Canada licenced labs under the Trusted Labs Partnership and sets a shared proficiency trial plan for THC, CBD, terpenes, and microbials. Labs analyze matched samples using their own methods, then compare variance and document drivers. Academic researchers support study design and statistics. NFCF turns findings into simple guidance for cannabis farmers, retailers, and consumers.
Without aligned proficiency benchmarks, labs can report different THC, CBD, terpene, or microbial outcomes for the same product. Cannabis farmers can face re-testing costs, delayed launches, and label disputes. Inflated potency reporting can distort pricing and harm trust with retailers and consumers. Poor microbial interpretation can drive avoidable holds or, worse, missed safety signals.
NFCF manages a trusted, farmer-led research process with Health Canada licenced labs and academic researchers. Labs test matched samples, share methods, and review variance drivers as a group. NFCF builds education that explains the science behind the research in plain terms for producers, retailers, and consumers. The Trusted Labs Partnership strengthens reporting and raises confidence.
Agricultural commodity gene banks build a shared genetics library that support plant breeding efforts and long-term crop resilience.
Researching innovative agriculture tech that can shape how cannabis farmers can approach plant tissue analysis onsite.
Join the Federation of Cannabis Farmers and shape the future of the cannabis farming industry, nationwide.
