Skip to content
menu-toggle-drs
menu-close-drs
Submit Samples

What Terpene Profile Test Covers

Our terpene panel quantifies the compounds responsible for aroma, flavor, and part of the perceived effect profile of cannabis. A complete terpene fingerprint helps:

  • Validate strain identity (e.g., citrus-forward, pine-heavy, gas/diesel notes)

  • Support consumer experience claims (energizing, calming, relaxing)

  • Maintain batch-to-batch consistency for NY dispensary buyers

  • Strengthen product differentiation in a competitive market

Commonly Reported Terpenes (30+ Covered)

(We can adjust panel based on NY operator needs.)

Myrcene  Limonene  Pinene (α & β)
Linalool Caryophyllene Humulene
Terpinolene Ocimene Fenchol
Bisabolol Geraniol Eucalyptol

 Output includes individual concentrations, total terpene percentage, and dominant terpene profile classification (e.g., Myrcene-Dominant, Terpinolene-Dominant, Balanced).

 

How We Test

We analyze terpene content using Headspace Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (HS-GC-MS). This method is ideal for volatility-sensitive compounds because:

  • It isolates aromatic molecules without degrading cannabinoids

  • It detects low-level terpenes with high sensitivity

  • It separates terpene isomers that co-elute in simpler GC methods

  • It avoids thermal breakdown, preserving accurate ratios

What You’ll See in Your COA:

  • Individual terpene concentrations (mg/g or %)

  • Total terpene percentage

  • A classified terpene dominance profile

  • Notes on anomalies (e.g., oxidation, terpene loss, unexpected profiles)

Sample Amounts Required:

  • Flower: 2–3 g

  • Concentrate / Extract: 2–3 g

  • Vape Oil: 2–3 g

  • Infused Products: 2–3 g

 

NY Compliance & Labeling Context

While the NY OCM does not currently mandate terpene testing for regulatory release, terpene data is increasingly important for:

  • Retailers who request terpene profiles for product placement

  • Consumer transparency, as NY requires accurate labeling of marketed effects

  • Supporting product differentiation within OCM packaging guidelines

  • Strengthening consistency and quality claims during inspections or retail onboarding

Why terpene accuracy still matters in NY

  • Any terpene claims or descriptors on packaging must be truthful and verifiable (NY prohibits misleading product claims).

  • Terpene drift due to poor storage can affect potency and product acceptance.

  • COAs must accurately reflect product composition when a terpene profile is advertised.

Manufacturers who promote terpene-driven effects (e.g., “citrus-forward,” “pine-aroma,” “terpene-rich formulation”) benefit from having a valid GC-MS terpene report to support those claims.

Why DRS Testing for Potency

NY-Specific Expertise

We tailor terpene reporting to New York’s market and regulatory expectations, supporting strain verification and product differentiation for processors and retailers.

Advanced GC-MS Analysis

We use headspace GC-MS to isolate and quantify volatile compounds with precision, giving you accurate terpene resolution without thermal degradation.

Consultation Included

Our scientists explain complex terpene data in clear, practical language, helping you understand how profiles influence effects, branding, and formulation choices.

Batch Consistency Tracking

Terpene levels can shift over time, so our comparative batch reports help you document stability and meet buyer and inspector expectations.

Fast Turnaround

We prioritize rapid, reliable reporting so your production timeline never stalls, delivering results quickly while maintaining the scientific rigor required by New York’s strict compliance standards.

Retail Ready COA

Every terpene report is formatted for fast intake with a clean layout, dominant-terpene clarity, and QR-enabled verification for dispensaries.

Ready to submit samples?

Submit your terpene samples today or speak with our lab team for guidance on profiling, consistency tracking, or product differentiation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Terpene Profile Testing

What does a terpene profile actually tell me?

It shows which aromatic compounds are present and in what quantities. These compounds shape flavor, aroma, and part of the perceived effects. Profiles help differentiate products that may otherwise share similar cannabinoid potency.

Do I need terpene testing to sell cannabis in New York?

It’s not required, but it is increasingly expected by buyers and customers. Many NY retailers prioritize terpene-rich or terpene-classified products during intake. Accurate terpene data also prevents labeling issues if aroma descriptors are used.

How stable are terpenes over time?

Terpenes oxidize and evaporate more quickly than cannabinoids. Exposure to heat, oxygen, or UV light reduces terpenes significantly. Testing allows you to verify shelf stability or diagnose storage issues.

Can you test terpene content in vapes and distillates?

Yes. HS-GC-MS accurately identifies terpene ratios in complex matrices such as vape oils, live resin, rosin, and distillate formulations—important for authenticity and formulation QC.

How much samples do you need?

2–3 grams of most products. For vapes, a full cartridge or 2–3 grams of oil is ideal for representative testing.

Can terpene data help with strain authentication?

Absolutely. Many strains have recognizable terpene “signatures.” GC-MS profiles help verify whether a batch matches expected aroma chemistry or if drift/adulteration occurred.