Sampling represents a primary challenge in cannabis analysis. Due to the heterogeneity of the cannabis plant, obtaining a representa`ve sample is crucial for accurate results. The distribu`on of cannabinoids and other compounds can vary greatly within a single plant, and even more so across different plants. Consequently, without proper sampling protocols, there is a high risk of obtaining non-representa`ve samples, leading to misleading analy`cal outcomes. A study by Atkins highlights the difficulty in obtaining representa`ve samples from cannabis due to its economic value, material complexity, and plant-based nature.(6) Sample prepara`on is another cri`cal step, olen plagued by the complexity of the cannabis matrix. Different prepara`on methods can significantly impact the concentra`on and recovery of analytes. Ensuring consistent and appropriate extrac`on and purifica`on methods is essen`al for reliable analy`cal results, although the complexity of cannabis matrices demands specialized sample prepara`on techniques. For instance, Wilcox et al. discusses how tradi`onal extrac`on methods may not be effec`ve for complex food or topical matrices containing cannabis, leading to inaccurate measurements.(8) Cross-contamina`on poses yet another significant issue. Given the s`cky and resinous nature of cannabis, there is a high risk of cross-contamina`on during sample handling and processing.(3) Contamina`on can lead to erroneous high or low concentra`on readings, directly impac`ng the accuracy of the analysis. Another example is the analysis of cannabinoids in hair. Auwärter et al. and Duvivier et al. both emphasize the challenges of differen`a`ng between external contamina`on and drug incorpora`on into hair. Lastly, the choice of analy`cal method greatly influences the accuracy of test results. Techniques such as High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Gas Chromatography (GC) are commonly employed, but each comes with its own limita`ons and suscep`bili`es to errors. The lack of standardized methods across laboratories further exacerbates these issues, leading to inconsistent results. Obtaining accurate analy`cal test results in the cannabis industry is already a complex process influenced by various scien`fic factors, although addi`onal forces complicate this further.