Laboratory accused of inflating THC levels for greater profitability

Peak Analytics, the largest testing laboratory in Washington State, is accused of inflating the THC levels in each of its samples. Additionally, this laboratory reportedly has a very low rate of marijuana deemed unfit for consumption compared to its competitors.

More powerful, and therefore more expensive

The complaint, revealed by Leafly, was filed by the Washington Cannabis Laboratory Association to the agency responsible for cannabis regulation. According to data provided by the laboratory association, Peak Analytics allegedly inflated the THC levels by as much as 5% for most of the samples tested.

«These data indicate that Peak Analytics reports figures well above industry-standard results.» «Traceability data show that this overestimation is consistent over time and across growing regions.» «The data shown in the graph represent tens of thousands of samples.».

If these complaints prove to be valid, consumers have paid more for their cannabis without receiving the product they expected.

Widespread practice and strong allegations

The evidence against Peak Analytics is mounting. In February 2017, a cannabis producer had his product tested at eight different laboratories. His samples tested at 13% at all laboratories except Peak Analytics, where they tested at 18%.

According to Leafly’s investigation, some dispensaries encouraged their suppliers to use the fraudulent lab. This allowed the retail price to be increased by a factor of 1.5.

Even more serious than the falsification of THC levels is the approval for sale of cannabis that does not meet health and safety standards. Jim MacRae, an independent scientist, announced after an in-depth investigation that only 5% of the batches are being withdrawn from circulation, whereas 10% of the batches are being withdrawn in other laboratories.

Industry stakeholders—and especially the laboratory’s competitors—are calling for exemplary penalties. Indeed, THC content is the main factor driving consumer purchases. If fraudsters are not punished in a manner commensurate with the severity of their deception, this unfortunate trend could become widespread.