Through each step of the cannabis supply chain, improper handling and unclean environments can easily lead to the introduction of unwanted foreign materials. While filth and extraneous materials might not pose direct health risks to humans, their presence in high quantities generally evidences poor manufacturing and/or transport sanitation and is correlated with other problems such as microbial contamination.

As defined in California Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) regulations, “‘foreign material’ means any filthy, putrid, or decomposed substance including hair, insects, excreta, or related adulterant that may be hazardous or cause illness or injury to the consumer.” Identifying foreign material requires visual examination to determine the presence or absence of these contaminants. All product types must undergo examination when submitted for compliance testing.

“(e) The sample shall be deemed to have passed the foreign material testing if the presence of foreign material does not exceed: (1) 1/4 of the total sample area covered by sand, soil, cinders, or dirt; (2) 1/4 of the total sample area covered by mold; (3) 1 insect fragment, 1 hair, or 1 count mammalian excreta per 3.0 grams; or (4) 1/4 of the total sample area covered by an imbedded foreign material.”

Anresco routinely performs filth and foreign material testing and fully complies with testing regulations issued by the DCC.