Hemp White Papers & Guides

The HIA believes it is the privilege and responsibility of hemp industry leaders today to sow the seeds of a sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future for hemp in the US and around the world. In an effort to set industry standards, uniform terminology, and best practices that will foster stability, efficiency, safety, and prosperity, we have collected educational hemp white papers and guides for hemp operators. 

Accurate analysis of hemp products is crucial for cultivators, whether to confirm a legal level of THC or to establish the quality of the product. This means the method itself must be proven trustworthy. To make an informed decision about which method to use, a user must first understand the language surrounding method validation.

This paper highlights key differences in similar-sounding terms and provides important definitions that will allow a user to understand method validation and verification processes. This paper is the first in a series of five papers explaining method validations to help each user choose the strongest fit for their needs.

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Selecting a method that is the correct fit for your facility’s needs can be a formidable task, but an easy way to narrow options down is to begin by selecting one that has been validated.

To be considered a validated method, a rigorous evaluation incorporating specific study requirements is needed. This paper outlines the requirements that methods must meet to be considered validated and the advantages of a validated method.

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The first two papers in this series have provided the information to allow end users to understand and select a validated method for their testing needs.

This paper will focus on aspects for two different types of validations, those for chemistry and microbiology methods.

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Validation studies can be described as either internal or external. This paper will go over the differences between these two ways to validate a method and list the various benefits of internal and external method validations.

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Once the end user has reviewed validation reports and chosen a method, the final step in their process is verification. While validation
of a method establishes known performance requirements, verification ensures the method works as intended for the desired matrices and facilities.

Verification provides confidence to the end user that the method will perform accurately and that the results obtained can be trusted. Ongoing method performance monitoring is also recommended.

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USDA-NOP Certification of Hemp and Hemp Products

Hemp produced in accordance with the U.S. Domestic Hemp Production Program may be certified as organic if produced in accordance with USDA organic regulations.

Certified organic hemp is grown using methods and materials that have a low impact on the environment. Organic production systems replenish and maintain soil fertility, expand biologically diverse agriculture, and prohibit the use of synthetic toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilizers, as well as genetically engineered seed. Third-party certification organizations verify that organic producers and handlers meet strict federal regulations addressing the methods and materials allowed in organic production.

Read the Organic Hemp FAQ

In 2017, Rodale Institute initiated a four-year trial studying the effects of industrial hemp on soil health, weed suppression, and other uses. The project has just concluded its third year.

So far, research has shown that industrial hemp grows very quickly and performs just as well, if not better, than other cover crops.  Experience has shown hemp to be a resilient plant and a potential tool for bioremediation—plus, the bees love it.

Read the 2020 Hemp Trial Results

Over the course of a four-year trial, global leader in rigorous organics research, farmer training, and consumer education, Rodale Institute, has been exploring hemp’s powerful potential to heal soil and support farmers. Their goal is to study the plant’s potential to suppress weeds, add diversity to crop rotations, and boost farmers’ bottom lines.

Read the 2019 Preliminary Results

If you have developed hemp white papers or guides for operators that would benefit the collective hemp industries and are willing to share your findings, please contact us.Â