Yes. PathoSEEK's Aspergillus 5-Color Multiplex, Total Yeast and Mold, and Salmonella/STEC E.coli Multiplex assays have been certified by the AOAC for use on cannabis flower, concentrates, and infused edibles
The Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) publishes microbiological and chemical standards used globally to promote trade and to facilitate public health and safety. Testing labs trust AOAC-certified testing methods because they have passed a rigorous validation process and results have been repeated in multiple locations. Until recently, there have not been Sample Method Performance Requirements (SMPRs) published for testing on a cannabis matrix.
Medicinal Genomics is a member of the AOAC's Cannabis Analytical Science Program (CASP) working group. So far, we have earned AOAC Certification for:
- PathoSEEK® Aspergillus 5-Color Multiplex Detection Assays with SenSATIVAx® Extraction Kits for use on cannabis flower, concentrates, and infused edibles
- PathoSEEK® Salmonella and STEC E. coli Multiplex Assay with SenSATIVAx® Extraction Kits for use on cannabis flower, concentrates, and infused edibles
- PathoSEEK® Total Yeast and Mold Count Assay with SenSATIVAx® & TLP Extraction
In 2019, the AOAC developed a Standard Method Performance Requirements (SMPR) for Aspergillus, STEC E.coli, and Salmonella detection on cannabis. These are three separate SMPRs. In 2020, the AOAC also launched an Emergency Response Validation project for the enumeration of viable total yeast and mold in dried cannabis flower.
As of December 2020, only one microbial testing technology has completed the AOAC’s Performance Tested Methods (PTM) Program for detecting salmonella on cannabis and hemp flower. A few method developers have followed suit in 2021. You can search all the PTMs on the AOAC website.