The National Industrial Hemp Council (NIHC) has announced plans to roll out a pilot program establishing standards for CBD product testing protocols and laboratories. 

Program participants will be able to label products with the NIHC label of approval, ensuring the accuracy of product labeling and strengthening consumer confidence in cannabidiol (CBD) products. 

"We're excited for this program that we believe is going to strengthen consumer confidence, promote accuracy in labeling and ultimately, protect the brand of hemp," said Patrick Atagi, president and CEO of the National Industrial Hemp Council. "Since the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, consumers have been waiting for the FDA to act on CBD. Without any guidance from the FDA thus far, NIHC is stepping up to develop our own testing standards and labeling protocols that we believe will enhance consumer safety and protect the consumer's right to know."

NIHC is exploring the testing standards and third-party verification laboratory requirements that will be applicable when testing for potency, pesticides, metals, terpenes, and other product attributes. A critical part of the program will include using third-party accreditation bodies to verify that laboratories are following the appropriate testing protocols and properly calibrating their equipment, and that those running the tests are properly trained. 

"As one of North America's leading food and consumer product testing companies, FSNS is pleased to lead this effort," said Barry Carpenter, NIHC board member, NIHC Standards Committee Chair, and senior advisor for Regulatory Affairs and Client Relations for Food Safety Net Services (FSNS). "This initiative will bring value to the marketplace and peace of mind to the consumer with reliable and transparent information about CBD products."

NIHC is looking to partner and explore these standards with the world's leading standards bodies, hoping to make a pilot program for CBD companies and labs available for enrollment. 

Want more legal cannabis market news and information?
Join Cannabis Products on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn today!