Cannabis Tech Talks: Solving the Cannabis Contamination Problem
Rad Source & Clean Cannabis
On a recent episode of Cannabis Tech Talks (click to view the full episode), host Mary Jane Gibson sat down with Rad Source’s Executive Vice President George Terry and Service Manager David Hyde to discuss something every cultivator faces at some point: microbial contamination and how to address it without sacrificing quality.
Rad Source’s technology was originally developed for healthcare, where X-ray blood irradiation is used to help prevent transfusion-associated graft-versus-host disease (TA-GVHD), an FDA-cleared and widely trusted application. Today, that same “photonic” technology helps cannabis producers lower microbial load without relying on chemicals, heat, or harsh remediation methods that compromise the flower.
Why this isn’t just “surface level”
Surface applications like UV light and ozone only affect the areas they can physically reach. Dense cannabis flower holds microbes throughout the bud, not just on the exterior.
Rad Source systems utilize high-energy photons that are able to penetrate the dense flower, reaching microbes deep within the product. The dose is also customizable to the cultivator’s needs. This process disrupts microbial DNA so that it cannot reproduce while maintaining the plant’s valuable natural traits. This means that the terpenes, cannabinoids, and moisture are maintained, allowing cultivators to maintain the aroma, flavor, and potency their customers expect.
Built for real workflows
Each facility has a different level of microbes. Doses and cycle times can be adjusted to fit your needs. Our systems can handle from tens to over 100 pounds per day, so you can add decontamination without disrupting your schedule. If your output increases, we create solutions so you can meet the new increase in volume.
Technology is only useful when it works. Our service team focuses on keeping your system running, solving problems quickly, and making maintenance easy. Our newest decontamination systems are built for fast diagnostics and simple repairs, so your product keeps moving.
Clean growing still comes first
We strongly support clean cultivation. Still, changes in seasons, humidity, and other surprises can happen. Adding a non-thermal, non-chemical decontamination step gives you consistent results and peace of mind when it is time for testing.
To learn more about the microbes commonly involved with testing, click here.
To view our 420 Series, click here.