Heavy metals are naturally occurring elements that may accumulate in cannabis plants if present in soil, water, or growing materials. Common heavy metals tested include lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury. Testing helps protect consumers from potential toxic exposure. Cannabis plants are known bioaccumulators, meaning they can absorb heavy metals from contaminated growing environments at higher concentrations than many other crops. For this reason, heavy metal testing is a standard requirement in regulated cannabis markets and producers should be attentive to the quality and sourcing of soil, water, and any growing inputs they use.
