• Prerequisite for hemp testing accreditation
• Method standardization for the industry
• Evaluating interlaboratory variability

Samples

Hemp Scheme

• Our Division analyzes hemp grown in Kentucky on behalf of the Kentucky Department of Agricultural. Excess material from this testing is homogenized to create the proficiency testing samples.
• Samples have varying levels of THC and CBD with THC concentrations less than 0.3% to ensure they meet the legal definition of industrial hemp.
• Participating laboratories receive shipments in September and November.
• Each shipment contains two samples of dried and ground hemp.

Oil Scheme

• Various oil products are manufactured from hemp seed or plants intended for human or animal consumption to improve health and well-being. The products have label claims for various compounds like CBD.
• Two samples are prepared from commercially available products with THC concentrations less than 0.3% to ensure they meet the legal requirement.
• Participating laboratories receive shipments in September and November.
• Each shipment contains one sample of an oil product from hemp.

Analytes Tested

Results are submitted in triplicate on the analytes and methods used in each laboratory.

• Cannabinoids
• Metals
• Terpenes
• Moisture

See reports & method codes (excel download) for more detailed information.

• Necessary for method validation
• Invaluable for laboratory quality assurance
• Quality Reference Material

Reports Generated

Statistical reports are generated based on "Statistical methods for use in proficiency testing by interlaboratory comparison" (ISO 13528:2015).

• Participating laboratories are identified by an assigned number to maintain lab anonymity.
• Individual lab performance reports with Z Scores are distributed individually.
• Summary reports of all results can be found here.

Fee

$630 for the 2024 Hemp Scheme

$310 for the 2024 Oil Scheme

• Shipping is included in price.
• 6% sales tax will be added to all invoices.
  If your organization is tax exempt please contact us.

How to Participate

• In July, all past participants are sent an invoice where you choose the schemes in which you will participate.
• The first shipment occurs in September.
• Labs new to the program submit enrollment form..

  Enrollments are accepted for the full year. Partial payments are not accepted. If you join a Sample Scheme after a round has been reported, all past samples will be shipped to you after payment is received. Your lab will not receive reports for completed rounds.