2024 Mid-Year Cannabis Content Roundup

As we mark the midway point in 2024 and turn our attention to the second half of the year, let’s take a look back at some of the most popular topics from our columns, blogs, and news.

Calibration Science, Part II: Systematic Error, Signal-to-Noise Ratios, and How to Reduce Random Error

The Cannabis Analysis column by Brian C. Smith in the January/February issue proved to be popular among our readers. In this article, the second installment of the calibration science series, Smith introduced a second type of error besides random error, called systematic error. He also examined how accuracy measures both types of error, discussed how to quantitate error by measuring signal-to-noise ratios, and how to improve data quality despite the presence of error by averaging observations together.

Dive into calibration science here.

Automation and All-In-One Systems

Similarly, the January/February Extraction Science column by Lo Friesen explored a noteworthy topic. In this article, Friesen seeks to understand the opportunities and challenges as manufacturers implement automation and scaling up production. As the cannabis industry continues to demand high purity cannabis extracts at a low cost, the demand has forced innovation within extraction and refinement. Many manufacturers are seeking automation, consolidating systems and process steps, and scaled up equipment.

Read the full Extraction Science column here.

Enhancing Anthocyanin Levels in Cannabis: Environmental Factors at Play

In the March/April Cultivation Classroom column, Zacariah L. Hildenbrand, Hannia Mendoza-Dickey, and Robert Manes shared their expertise on anthocyanin production in cannabis cultivation, focusing on how cultivators can leverage environmental conditions and advanced lighting technologies to enhance plant health, aesthetic qualities, and phytochemical content.

Learn more about anthocyanin levels here.

Let’s Talk About It: Cannabis Remediation

One of our Feature articles from the January/ February issue explained four key areas growers should focus on to mitigate the need for excessive remediation. Here, Patrick Bird discussed facility design flow, environmental monitoring, cleaning and sanitization processes, and having a trusted diagnostics partner.

Read the full article to learn more about cannabis remediation here.

The Impact of Rescheduling Cannabis—Things to Prepare for Now

The June installment of the Stuck on Compliance blog discussed how the proposed rescheduling of cannabis holds profound implications for the industry, affecting everything from research and taxation to banking and market dynamics. This installment was co-authored by Kim Stuck, founder and CEO of Allay consulting, and David Vaillencourt, founder and CEO of The GMP Collective, Chairman of the Board for S3 Collective, and Vice-Chair of ASTM International Committee D37 on Cannabis Standards.

Learn more about the six potential impacts of rescheduling here.

Cannabis Use During Pregnancy

In this research overview published in June 2024, Ruth Fisher, PhD, examines studies on various aspects of cannabis use and pregnancy, including effects and outcomes, risks, reasons for use, and the challenges inherent in the studies themselves. This article also sparked conversations on our social media platforms.

Dive into the research overview here.

DEA Will Reclassify Cannabis to Schedule III, According to Reports

Arguably a popular topic across all facets of the industry, this news article from the end of April 2024 resulted in significant engagement.

Several sources have reported that the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will reschedule cannabis from its current position as a Schedule I drug, the most strictly controlled category of controlled substances, to a Schedule III drug. The long-awaited announcement is expected to affect various aspects of the industry nationally, including new opportunities for businesses, research, and regulations. Currently, more than half of states in the US permit cannabis for medical use and nearly half for recreational use. Recent surveys have indicated consistent support for cannabis legalization.

Read our full coverage here.