If your cannabis brand operates in the rapidly evolving Michigan market, it’s vital to stay ahead of the curve by understanding the upcoming regulations surrounding testing for MCT oil in vapes and carts. With new guidelines coming into effect on October 1, 2024, operators will need to partner with a trusted testing laboratory to help ensure product quality and consumer safety.
By choosing a partner like ACT LAB, you can ensure compliance with these latest standards and gain the confidence to navigate the regulatory landscape effectively. Read on to learn how we can help your Michigan brand understand the impact of these changes — and proactively adapt to meet new testing requirements and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
What is MCT Oil?
This processed oil, derived from coconut or palm oil, is a popular nutritional supplement. MCTs (medium-chain triglycerides) offer unique health benefits due to their smaller molecular structure than LCTs (long-chain triglycerides). They are easier to digest and quickly enter the bloodstream, providing a quick and wholesome energy source. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition even found that MCT oil led to higher rates of fat mass loss than olive oil could.
Most people consume MCT oil by adding it into foods and beverages — it’s particularly popular in a coffee drink referred to as “bulletproof coffee” — or taking it in pill or powder form as a supplement. While this oil has been studied for its health benefits in these formats, the effects of inhalation are currently unknown.
How is MCT Oil Used in Cannabis Carts and Vapes?
MCT oil is often utilized as a carrier oil for terpenes when adding botanical or flavored terpene blends to products. Additionally, some processors utilize MCT oil as a cutting agent or thinning additive, making it possible to increase the number of cart units produced from the same batch of extract. However, recent concerns regarding the use of MCT oil in cannabis testing have prompted regulators to take proactive measures in the Michigan market.
The Dangers of Inhalable MCT Oil in Cannabis Products
As the popularity of vaping cannabis products continues to rise, concerns about the safety of MCT oil have emerged as the effects of inhalation are unknown. However, because it is commonly derived from coconut oil, it could potentially coat the interior of the lungs and produce harmful compounds when vaporized. These compounds could then cause lipid pneumonia and ammonia exposure.
The lack of conclusive data on the long-term impact of vaping or inhaling MCT oil underscores the importance of staying informed about regulations and emerging studies in the landscape of cannabis consumption. With the potential respiratory risks of inhalation, it’s crucial to consider the implications of using MCT oil in vape products and prioritize consumer safety.
Robin Schneider, the executive director of the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association, highlighted the importance of testing products for MCT oil content to ensure consumer safety. This industry-wide initiative aims to guarantee that the products available on dispensary shelves are free from MCT oil, providing both retailers and consumers peace of mind.
Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency Announces New Testing Requirement for MCT Oil
The Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency recently announced a new testing requirement for MCT oil, set to take effect on October 1, 2024. This technical bulletin stated that “MCT (medium-chain triglyceride) oil will be added as a target analyte for marijuana [sic] vape cartridges as part of the Sampling and Testing Technical Guidance for Marijuana Products.” This move signifies Michigan’s commitment to protecting consumers and advancing safety standards within the cannabis sector.
Executive Director Brian Hanna emphasized the importance of thoroughly evaluating ingredients for their compatibility with lung health. Retail members of the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association have expressed support for this initiative, with plans to conduct pre-purchase testing to ensure products are MCT oil-free. This will ease the burden on retailers and safeguard consumers from potential health risks.
MiNORML Executive Director Anqunette Sarfoh applauded the state’s decision to restrict MCT oil, highlighting the importance of implementing proactive measures to prevent harm. Anton Harb Jr., founder of the Veteran Access Program, also commended the CRA for banning MCT oil in regulated vape cartridges. This move signifies Michigan’s commitment to protecting consumers and advancing safety standards within the cannabis sector.
What This Regulation Means for Michigan Cultivators and Manufacturers
At this point, you may be asking yourself, “What does this regulatory change mean for my cannabis brand?” If you produce vapes and/or carts in the state of Michigan, your products must undergo and pass MCT oil testing to clear testing and be available for sale in dispensaries.
In such a highly competitive market, failing compliance testing and being unable to sell a batch can make a huge difference in your bottom line and lead to distrust amongst consumers. Before this regulation goes into effect, now is the time to prepare and ensure you have testing processes in place to align.
In addition to partnering with a testing lab that has capabilities in MCT oil testing, we also recommend that manufacturers confirm that their terpene or flavor providers aren’t utilizing MCT oil as a carrier now — which would cause your products to fail testing after October 1st.
ACT LAB’s MCT Oil Testing Method
MCT oil testing at ACT LAB is an expansion of our existing vitamin E acetate via LC-MS-MS method. The addition of the four required analytes has been developed and fully validated in cannabis concentrate matrices. The four analytes are as follows:
- Glycerol Tricapronate (C6)
- Glycerol Tricaprylate (C8)
- Glycerol Tricaprate (C10)
- Glycerol Trilaurate (C12)
Ensure Compliance and Consumer Safety With Cutting-Edge MCT Oil Testing From ACT LAB!
There’s no need to stress over changing testing standards — partnering with ACT LAB can ensure your vapes and carts comply with new testing regulations in Michigan.
Our quantifiable MCT oil testing capabilities, exclusively available for our Michigan clients, set the standard in testing technology. Our expert team also offers guidance on interpreting reports and identifying contaminants so you can proactively improve product quality. If you do test positive for MCT oil, we can help you find the source of the contaminant so you can re-formulate your product lines to effectively pass future compliance testing and ensure customer safety.
The result? Reduced risk and increased profitability for your brand. Request testing today to get started before this new regulation goes into effect on October 1st, 2024.