Volatiles And Terpene Testing

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and terpene profiling represent the analytical foundation for understanding cannabis aromatics. Laboratory testing identifies and quantifies terpenes—limonene, myrcene, caryophyllene, and dozens more—that contribute to strain-specific aromatic signatures. Gas chromatography (GC) and liquid chromatography (LC) are standard methods for separating and measuring these compounds. Terpene concentrations vary significantly across cultivars, seed lines, and growing conditions, making standardized testing essential for breeding documentation and phenotype characterization. This data informs lineage tracking and helps breeders select for consistent aromatic traits across generations.

Breeders rely on terpene testing to verify genetic expression and select parent plants with desired volatile profiles. Consistent terpene data across seed runs validates breeding stability and helps stabilize new cultivar lines.