Good Agricultural and Collection Practices (GACP)
Guidelines for the Cultivation, Harvesting, and Primary Processing of Medicinal Plants, Including Cannabis As the medicinal cannabis industry continues to grow, it is important to ensure that the products being produced are of the highest quality and safety standards. That's where Good Agricultural and Collection Practices (GACP) come in. These guidelines provide a framework for the cultivation, harvesting, and primary processing of medicinal plants, including cannabis.
GACP guidelines cover all aspects of plant production, from the selection of appropriate cultivars and planting materials to the harvesting, drying, and storage of plant material. They also include guidelines for the use of pesticides and other chemicals, as well as guidelines for ensuring proper sanitation and hygiene practices.
One of the key principles of GACP is the use of sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in plant production. This includes the use of organic fertilizers and natural pest control methods, as well as the conservation of water resources and the protection of biodiversity.
GACP guidelines also emphasize the importance of documentation and traceability throughout the production process. This includes recording the origin of planting materials, the use of any pesticides or other chemicals, and the processing and storage of plant material. Proper documentation and traceability ensure that the products are of a consistent quality and that any issues can be identified and addressed quickly.
For cannabis production specifically, GACP guidelines cover both indoor and outdoor cultivation, as well as greenhouse production. They also include guidelines for the handling and processing of cannabis plant material, such as drying, trimming, and extraction methods.
Adherence to GACP guidelines is not only important for ensuring the quality and safety of medicinal cannabis products, but it is also becoming increasingly important for regulatory compliance. Many countries and regions now require GACP certification for the cultivation and production of medicinal cannabis.