Cannabinoid Potency Testing — Explained (Eurofins Interview Segment)
One of the most important parts of product safety and regulatory compliance in the hemp and CBD industry is accurate cannabinoid potency testing. During our conversation with Vanessa Snyder and Grace Bandong of Eurofins, we explored how reliable analytical methods are developed, validated, and standardized across the industry.
Why Potency Testing Matters
As hemp markets began expanding five to six years ago, it became clear that the industry needed standardized, scientifically validated methods to accurately quantify cannabinoids such as:
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CBD
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CBG
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CBN
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Δ9-THC
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Other minor cannabinoids
Producers needed consistent results they could trust — not only for compliance, but to protect brands and keep consumers safe.
Developing a Standard Method
Vanessa explained that Eurofins invested early in creating a robust potency testing method that could stand up to scientific scrutiny. This wasn’t a quick process — it required:
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Full method validation
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Performance testing
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Reproducibility across labs
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Verification on a wide range of matrices (plant material, extracts, tinctures, gummies, beverages, topicals)
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Meeting AOAC performance requirements
What is AOAC?
AOAC INTERNATIONAL (formerly Association of Official Analytical Chemists) is the global organization that sets method standards for:
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Food safety
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Dietary supplements
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Contaminants
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Microbiological standards
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Chemical analysis
They establish the minimum requirements a testing method must meet to be recognized as valid.
Eurofins’ hemp potency method went through the entire AOAC validation pathway, which is the same standard used in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Award-Winning Method
In fact, the method Eurofins developed became:
AOAC’s “Method of the Year” in 2021
This recognition underscores both its accuracy and its importance to the hemp industry. Few labs have validated potency methods at this level.
Why This Matters for the Hemp Industry
A standardized, peer-reviewed potency method means:
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More consistent COAs
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Better consumer protection
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Stronger defense against regulatory challenges
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Reliable data for product formulation
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Clearer consistency across brands
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Credibility with retailers and distributors
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Reduced risk of “hot” crops due to inaccurate testing
As the industry shifts into more regulated spaces — OTC wellness products, dietary supplements, beverages, and even future FDA pathways — validated potency testing becomes essential.