Types of Testing

Under the Illinois CRTA, all cannabis products must undergo testing. The tests include the following: Potency/active ingredient analysis, microbiological contaminants, mycotoxins, residual solvents, and heavy metals.

Potency / Active Ingredient Analysis                                    

This testing measures the concentration of key cannabinoids (such as THC, CBD, and other key compounds) in the product.

• Ensures the product is accurately labeled.
• Helps verify dosing consistency and consumer safety.
• Prevents misrepresentation of strength, which can lead to over‑intoxication or ineffective products.
• Cannabinoid amounts can be represented in milligrams (Mg) or % depending on the product tested.

Microbiological Contaminants Testing

This testing evaluates products for harmful microorganisms, including bacteria (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli), fungi, yeast, and mold, to screen for microbial contamination and pathogenic risks to consumers.

• Protects consumers from pathogens that can cause infection or illness.
• Especially critical for inhaled products, since contaminated material can cause serious respiratory issues.
• Ensures the product was produced and handled under sanitary conditions.

Mycotoxin Testing

Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain molds (such as Aspergillus species).

• Some mycotoxins can cause severe health effects including liver damage, immune suppression, or carcinogenic effects.
• Cannabis is an agricultural product prone to mold growth; this test ensures contaminated plants are not entering the supply chain.

Residual Solvent Analysis

This test detects leftover solvents used during extraction processes (e.g., butane, propane, ethanol). This analysis ensures products are free of leftover harmful solvents that are used during the extraction process. Like heavy metals, the level that is deemed safe for consumers depends on whether the cannabis product is or is not intended for inhalation through normal use.

• Many solvents can be harmful if inhaled or ingested at high levels.
• Ensures extraction and purging processes were performed correctly.
• Protects consumers from toxic exposure and ensures product quality and purity.

Heavy Metals Testing

This analysis screens for metals such as lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury, which can be taken up from soil or introduced through processing. These tests ensure products are free from harmful levels of contamination and meet safety standards designed to protect consumers.  The level that is deemed safe to consumer depends on whether the cannabis product is or is not intended for inhalation through normal use.

• Heavy metals are toxic even at low concentrations and can cause long-term health issues.
• Heating or combusting contaminated material can increase exposure risks.
• Ensures growing practices and manufacturing processes are safe.

Pesticides Testing

Pesticides are chemicals used during cultivation to protect cannabis plants from mold, insects, and harmful bacteria that can interfere with healthy growth of the plant. Under the Illinois CRTA, cannabis products must undergo a pesticide testing panel to ensure they are free from unsafe levels of chemical residues. This testing helps confirm product safety by screening a wide range of pesticides that could pose health risks to consumers. 

Terpines Testing (Testing is optional)

Optional terpene testing provides detailed information about the aromatic compounds in cannabis, helping consumers understand a product’s flavor profile and potential effects. While not required, terpene analysis offers added insight into product quality and user experience.

Foreign Materials Testing (Testing is optional)

Optional foreign material testing helps identify unwanted substances—such as hair, fibers, or other debris that may be present in cannabis products at different stages of production. While not required, this added screening supports higher quality standards and provides consumers with greater confidence in product purity.

Moisture Testing (Testing is optional)

Optional moisture testing measures how much water is present in cannabis products, helping assess freshness, shelf stability, and the risk of microbial growth. While not required, this analysis supports higher product quality by identifying moisture levels that may affect safety, potency, or overall consumer experience.

Water Activity Testing (Testing is optional)

Optional water activity testing measures how tightly water is bound within a cannabis product, helping predict its shelf stability and risk for microbial growth. While not required, this analysis provides valuable insight into product safety, freshness, and long-term quality.