Nicholasville, Kentucky – KCA Laboratories, a recognized facility for hemp and medical cannabis testing, is preparing to expand its operations to include medical marijuana testing, ahead of its legalization set for January 1, 2025. As one of only five licensed testing facilities in Kentucky, KCA Laboratories aims to ensure the safety and compliance of medical cannabis products for patients in the state.
With nearly 5,000 businesses applying for licenses, the lab stands out as it has been operational since 2019, serving a wide range of clients both in the United States and abroad. “We’re doing work in virtually every state in the U.S. and in about 30 foreign countries today,” said Richard Sams, the lab’s Scientific Director. “We’ve worked hard to get to this point.”
The testing facility will play a critical role in assessing medical marijuana products before they reach consumers. This is crucial, as patients obtaining a medical cannabis card will only be able to purchase products that have passed rigorous safety checks. The state has established strict requirements, including a THC limit of 35% for cannabis products, compared to 0.3% for hemp.
Testing for contaminants will also be a priority, as certain populations, such as those with specific medical conditions, may be more vulnerable to the harmful effects of toxins. “If contaminants are above the regulatory limits, then they can’t be sold in the medical cannabis program,” Sams emphasized. It is expected that KCA Labs will need additional staff to manage increased testing demands as the market grows.
KCA Laboratories currently employs 18 to 20 staff members and may expand its workforce as operations shift towards medical marijuana. The lab is already equipped with the necessary instruments for testing, as the methods for assessing hemp and marijuana are largely similar, barring the concentration levels of THC.
As Kentucky gears up for the launch of its medical cannabis program, the license lottery for cultivators and processors is scheduled for October 28, 2024. The state plans to issue 48 dispensary licenses while allowing an unlimited number of testing facilities.
Sams welcomed the prospect of competition in the field, stating, “We know how to do our work, and we’re not afraid of competition.” As KCA Laboratories prepares for this significant transition, it is set to assure Kentuckians that the medical cannabis products accessible to them are safe and compliant.
For more information on medical marijuana regulations in Kentucky, individuals may refer to state resources as the start date approaches.
