What is GMP and why does it matter for the Cannabis Industry? Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) is a set of standards created by the FDA to ensure that products manufactured for consumption are safe, consistent, and reliable. In preparation of federal legalization, it is prudent to begin building your GMP procedure
An Overview of GMP
Good Manufacturing Practices (or, GMP) is a set of standards created by the US Food and Drug Administration to ensure products manufactured for consumption are safe and produced consistently and reliably to specifications for identity, strength, quality, and purity. While it may seem like GMP is essentially a Quality Management system, the standards are actually a systematic method of control throughout the entirety of an organization. The GMP system requires processes, procedures, and documentation across design/development, supplier management, procurement, manufacturing, facilities, material traceability, hiring and training, quality management and continuous improvement. Essentially, GMP is creating documented processes that allow an organization to produce an item exactly to specification and the ability to communicate to suppliers and customers when a deviation occurs. And obtaining a GMP Certification establishes trust between trade partners (and ultimately the end consumer). GMP standards were created in 1969 and have been a staple to the food and pharmaceutical industries for decades. Many retailers require GMP certification before approving a product for sale. |