Mycotoxin Screening

Mycotoxin screening is a laboratory testing protocol that detects fungal metabolites potentially present in cannabis biomass. These compounds are produced by certain mold species (such as Aspergillus and Fusarium) that may colonize plant material during cultivation, drying, or storage. Screening protocols vary by jurisdiction but commonly test for aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, and other regulated mycotoxins. Breeders and cultivators use screening data to identify cultivation conditions, storage methods, and genetic lines that may show resistance to fungal colonization. Results inform breeding decisions around plant structure, humidity tolerance, and post-harvest handling protocols. This classification focuses on detection and risk mitigation rather than strain genetics per se.

Breeders monitor mycotoxin screening results to correlate plant phenotypes—such as tight flower structure, fast dry-down, or natural mold resistance—with lower contamination risk. Lineage records increasingly document screening outcomes to inform future crosses in regulated markets.