Microbial contaminants are microorganisms — including bacteria, yeast, and mold — that can colonize cannabis products and pose health risks to consumers, particularly those who are immunocompromised. Common microbial targets in cannabis testing include Total Yeast and Mold Count (TYMC), Total Aerobic Count (TAC), and specific pathogens such as Salmonella and E. coli. Microbial contamination can originate from soil, water, growing environments, harvesting equipment, or post-harvest handling and storage. Regulated cannabis markets require microbial testing to ensure that products meet safety thresholds before reaching consumers.
