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Shelf-Life Testing Solutions

Ensure the integrity of your product with shelf-life studies

With a shelf-life study, we can help you isolate areas of concern and evaluate product stability. Any of the SC Labs test services may be monitored during a shelf-life study, and we can help you design a study for your individual product and needs.

Why is shelf-life testing important?

Understanding product shelf life is an important step in safeguarding your product from potential deterioration and spoilage. Despite considerable efforts to deliver a finished product that meets your state’s testing standards, prolonged time on retail shelves can change or degrade the performance and quality attributes of your product.

  • Real-time or accelerated studies to evaluate potency, terpenes, microbiology, mycotoxins, metals, solvents, and more.
  • Target multiple cannabis/hemp product types and finished products.
  • Screen and evaluate compatibility of formulations or intended packaging.
  • Equipped with advanced laboratory instruments and proven test processes.
  • Expert scientists and support representatives available to assist in interpreting results and assessing risks.

Recommended Studies by Test Type

The type of test and acceptance criteria you select may vary based on several factors. To tailor a shelf-life study for your needs, please contact an SC Labs representative.

TestRecommended Acceptance CriteriaRationale
Cannabinoids and/or Terpenoids (Infused)+/- 10% from week 0Ensure the cannabinoid potency of the product
Cannabinoids and/or Terpenoids (Concentrate)+/- 10% from week 0Ensure the cannabinoid potency of the product
Cannabinoids and/or Terpenoids (Flower/Fresh Leaf)+/- 10% from week 0Ensure the cannabinoid potency of the product
Cannabinoids (Pure Terpenes/Essential Oils)+/- 10% from week 0Ensure the cannabinoid potency of the product
Terpenoids (Pure Terpenes/Essential Oils)If terpene content is labelled, testing can ensure integrity
MycotoxinsCA Regulatory LimitsMycotoxins can form during storage
Residual Solvents | Comprehensive Test Panel – National HempResidual solvents can be imparted from packaging
Residual Solvents | Standard Test Panel – CaliforniaCA Regulatory LimitsResidual solvents can be imparted from packaging
Heavy MetalsOnly recommended for samples stored with metal (vape cartridges)Metals can be imparted from storage in contact with metals
Microbiology (any individual test)Microbial growth can occur during storage
Microbiology | Comprehensive Test Panel – National HempMicrobial growth can occur during storage
Microbiology | Expanded Test PanelMicrobial growth can occur during storage
Microbiology | Standard Test PanelMicrobial growth can occur during storage
Microbiology | 6-Organism Test Panel (Inhalable)CA Regulatory LimitsMicrobial growth can occur during storage
Microbiology | 2-Organism Test Panel (Non-Inhalable)CA Regulatory LimitsMicrobial growth can occur during storage
Water ActivityCA Regulatory LimitsWater activity can change during storage
Moisture Content+/- 10% from week 0Moisture can change during storage

SC Labs does not recommend the following for shelf-life studies:

  • Pesticides: Unlikely to form during storage
  • Vitamin E (Concentrate): It is not known that vitamin E can form during storage

Let’s talk about your testing needs

Our experts are always ready to answer your questions.