Data Doesn’t Lie: Addressing Anomalies in MA Lab Testing

Recent investigations have unveiled a major problem in the cannabis industry: the manipulation of contaminant and potency screens in laboratory testing. These practices threaten the credibility of the cannabis sector as well as consumer and employee health. This presentation aims to explore the depth of this problem in Massachusetts, its exposure through open data, and best remedies. We employed a data-driven approach: we analyzed publicly available lab test results across multiple states, involving statistical comparisons to identify anomalies and outliers in contaminant and potency screen results. The analysis revealed a distinct pattern of anomalies. Furthermore, we examined regulatory policies and assessed the impact of transparency on lab testing integrity. External scrutiny, made possible by open data, led to the identification and subsequent closure of labs involved in deceptive practices. The findings underscore the value of transparency in deterring unethical practices.