Shelf Life Testing

Shelf Life Testing

Most perishable products sold commercially in the United States undergo analytical testing to determine their life expectancy or “shelf life” under normal storage conditions before excessive deterioration occurs. Anresco has extensive expertise in testing protocols typically used in the food industry, in compliance with ICH stability guidelines (The International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use), and can also develop custom studies for cannabis-specific matrices. 

For example, we can quantify cannabinoid degradation over time controlling for various environmental factors including temperature, light exposure, humidity, and oxygen.  In doing so, a customer can make strategic decisions such as determining the optimum packaging and storage conditions for their product, in addition to generating data to ensure a consistent end-user experience.

Due to vast differences between products, professional input is required to ensure the appropriate analyses are performed and test schedule is developed.  Anresco’s senior analysts, many of whom have 30+ years of analytical experience, will take the time to get to know you and your products prior to developing a free custom proposal for you to consider.

Shelf Life Testing

Frequently performed analyses include:

Cannabis-Specific Analyses

  • Cannabinoid Profile (all product types)
  • Terpene Profile (all product types)
  • Heavy Metals (vape pens to measure potential leaching)

Microbiological Analyses

  • Standard Plate Count
  • Yeast & Mold Count
  • Lactic Acid Bacteria

  • E.coli/Coliforms
  • Listeria
  • Salmonella

Chemical Analyses

  • Moisture Content
  • Water Activity

  • pH
  • Fat Rancidity

Sensory Evaluation

  • Odor
  • Physical Appearance
  • Texture

If you would like a formalized testing proposal and quote, please complete our shelf life study questionnaire at the link below and we will get back to you as soon as we can.