LANSING, Michigan – Viridis Laboratories, Michigan’s largest cannabis testing company, has published peer-reviewed research into potency levels of tens of thousands of test results, with the nation’s leading forensic organization affirming Viridis’ methods and conclusions.

Appearing in the August 2023 issue of Journal of Forensic Sciences, the article outlines every step of Viridis’ testing strategy and process, from sample collection and chemicals used to calculations and data analyses, conducted on 34,000 samples in 2021 and 2022. Viridis’ research concluded that total THC levels in cannabis flower in the regulated market are higher than those reported for illicit cannabis products, averaging 21%–24% in the 2021 and 2022 regulated markets, compared with the 15% average in the 2021 illicit market. Viridis will present the analyses published in JFS at the AOAC International Conference, a gathering of global product safety experts, Aug. 25-30.

“Being published in a highly respected journal that represents the gold standard for the forensic sciences affirms our commitment at Viridis to use the most advanced science and the best practices at our two labs to ensure product safety through trustworthy and reliable testing.” said Viridis CEO Greg Michaud. “We are grateful to the American Academy of Forensic Sciences and their experts for reviewing our method and data, validating the results and sharing them with the wider scientific community. Viridis looks forward to continuing our work to promote science and providing the best products for our many customers.”

Viridis’ two laboratories in Lansing and Bay City use a potency testing method that is verified and certified by the Association of Analytical Composition (AOAC) under its Reviewed and Recognized program. The method is the only AOAC-certified marijuana potency testing method developed and in use by a private cannabis testing laboratory.

The Journal of Forensic Sciences is a publication of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, a multidisciplinary professional organization that provides leadership to advance science and its application to the legal system. AAFS is made up of pathologists, attorneys, toxicologists, anthropologists, chemists and other professionals in scientific and research fields. AAFS aims to promote professionalism, integrity, competency and collaboration in the forensic sciences.