Best Practices for Storing Flower & Extracts for Accurate Lab Results
When it comes to lab testing, the quality of the sample you send is just as important as the analytical process itself. Even the most advanced testing equipment can only measure what’s in the sample you provide—meaning improper storage before submission can skew results.
At CATLAB, LLC we see firsthand how temperature, light, humidity, and packaging can impact test accuracy. Whether you’re a cultivator, processor, or manufacturer, following proper storage protocols ensures your flower or extracts arrive at the lab in the same condition they left your facility.
Why Proper Storage Matters
Cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds are sensitive to environmental changes. Poor storage can cause:
- Degradation of cannabinoids — Exposure to heat, oxygen, or UV light can reduce potency levels over time.
- Loss of terpenes — These volatile compounds evaporate easily, changing both aroma and chemical profile.
- Moisture shifts — Too much humidity can promote mold growth, while too little can make flower brittle and unrepresentative of its true state.
- Contamination risk — Open or poorly sealed containers invite dust, microbes, and other unwanted contaminants.
These factors don’t just affect product quality—they can directly alter the accuracy of your lab results.
Best Practices for Flower Storage Before Testing
- Use Airtight Containers
Glass jars with airtight seals or high-quality food-grade plastic containers are best. Avoid thin plastic bags, which can allow oxygen exchange and static buildup that strips trichomes.
- Store in a Cool, Dark Place
Keep samples at a stable temperature between 60–70°F (15–21°C) and away from direct light. UV rays break down cannabinoids and terpenes quickly.
- Control Humidity
Aim for relative humidity between 55–62%. Use humidity packs if necessary, but avoid oversaturation, which can promote microbial growth.
- Avoid Over-Handling
Every time you open a container, you expose the sample to oxygen and potential contaminants. Prepare the sample for shipping in one step and keep it sealed until the lab receives it.
Best Practices for Extract & Concentrate Storage Before Testing
- Choose the Right Packaging
Use silicone-lined or glass containers for concentrates like shatter, wax, or rosin. For oils, dark glass vials help protect against light degradation.
- Temperature Control
Most concentrates benefit from cooler storage—ideally around 40–50°F (4–10°C)—but avoid freezing unless recommended for that specific extract type.
- Limit Oxygen Exposure
Vacuum-seal extracts or use containers that minimize headspace. Oxidation can alter potency and change the chemical profile.
- Ship Quickly
For both flower and extracts, reduce the time between packaging and lab submission. The longer a sample sits, the more opportunity for degradation.
Shipping & Handling Tips for Lab Samples
- Label Clearly — Include strain name, batch number, and any required compliance information.
- Insulate for Temperature Stability — In hot or cold weather, use insulated packaging to prevent temperature swings.
- Plan Delivery Timing — Ship early in the week to avoid weekend delays in transit.
Partnering with CATLAB, LLC for Accurate Results
Following these best practices ensures your product reaches us in optimal condition—so our advanced testing can give you the most accurate, reliable results possible. At CATLAB, LLC we’re committed to precision, compliance, and helping you deliver products that meet the highest quality standards.
📍 Visit CATLAB, LLC at 19 Levesque Dr., Eliot, ME or call (207) 200‑9950 to get started today.
