Modern Canna provides a vast range of laboratory analyses of hemp , including hemp moisture testing. A hemp moisture test measures the water concentration in a hemp sample. The moisture level of hemp refers to the percentage of the sample’s total weight that is made up of water. The water concentration, or “moisture content”, of hemp is a crucial indicator of the potential activity of microbiological contaminants such as fungi, bacteria, and insects.
Optimal Hemp Moisture Levels
Generally speaking, hemp moisture content should fall in the range of 6% to 15%. If a hemp moisture test reveals a water concentration in excess of 15%, it could indicate a high risk for contamination by microorganisms. The “water activity” in a hemp sample refers to the likelihood that the moisture in the sample will support the development of potentially dangerous contaminants. The water activity value should normally be lower than a measurement of 0.65aw to ensure that the hemp does not spoil while being stored.
Hemp Moisture Test
Following best practices when it comes to processing and storing medical hemp, as well as managing moisture control during the drying process, is critical to ensuring that the product is safe and effective. Modern Canna uses the latest moisture analyzing equipment and reliable methodologies such as “dew point” and “loss on drying” to accurately and dependably assess the moisture content of hemp. A hemp flower moisture test provides a quick and reliable way to identify the water content. Several measurements are taken on cured hemp flowers to determine the water concentration. The drying and curing process performed on medical hemp products will effect the amount of moisture residue. In hemp that is newly harvested, the moisture content may exceed 70% of the overall weight. Hemp flowers that have been dried may “crunch” a little following the drying and curing process, at which point the moisture content levels should be lowered to a safe 15% or lower to ensure the hemp is ready to be used or processed for medicinal purposes.
What Affects the Moisture Content of Hemp?
Water and moisture control is very important in growing hemp. Too little water can leave the plant overly dry, while too much water can expose it to contaminants.
A number of factors contribute to the water concentration levels of hemp flowers. The temperature in the environment in which hemp is grown affects how much or how little the plants should be watered. If the temperature is high in the environment, more water is needed. In high heat the roots will absorb the water faster. Not only will the heat make the roots absorb faster, but it will also make all water within the room or environment evaporate. With low temperatures it will be the opposite. Low heat will result in less evaporation, an overall moist room, and a lot of water for the roots. Therefore, in low heat the hemp will require less water.
Other factors are humidity and airflow. If there is high humidity then there is little need for water in the soil, and if there is low humidity then there is more need for water in the soil. The best humidity levels for hemp is a range between 55%-65%. In order to prevent bud rot, vent fans or circulating fans are used to bring in airflow and help control humidity. Depending on how much airflow you give, you might end up increasing the water demand of the roots. Humidity and airflow, as well as temperature, are just a few of the factors that will affect the environment in which hemp is grown.
Hemp Moisture Test Laboratory
Modern Canna operates hemp analytical testing laboratories in Florida that work with hemp providers all over the country. Our tests determine whether or not hemp samples contain contaminants that could put consumers and/or patients at risk. Our analysts and microbiologists analyze samples for potency, terpenes, foreign matter, mycotoxins, microbes, pesticides, heavy metals, and solvents used in the production of hemp-based-concentrates. For hemp moisture analysis services in Florida, please contact our labs today by calling or using our online form.
Additional hemp moisture testing resources:
- Guidance for State Medical Cannabis Testing Programs, https://www.aphl.org/aboutAPHL/publications/Documents/EH-Guide-State-Med-Cannabis-052016.pdf
- Marijuana Policy Project, https://www.mpp.org/states/florida/