Residual solvents are chemical solvents used during cannabis extraction that may remain in small amounts in finished products. Testing ensures that any remaining solvent levels fall within safe regulatory limits. Common extraction solvents tested include butane, propane, and ethanol. Residual solvent testing is required for extracted cannabis products because trace solvent levels that exceed regulatory thresholds can pose inhalation or ingestion risks. Manufacturers using solvent-based extraction processes must validate that their post-processing steps effectively remove solvents to acceptable levels before products are submitted for testing.
