Principles of Processing, Packaging, and Shelf-Life in Cannabis & Food
This course explores thermal and non-thermal processing, packaging technologies, and shelf-life optimization in cannabis, edibles, and food industries, focusing on safety, quality, stability, and regulatory compliance through industry applications.
$500 CAD
Course Overview
This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles involved in processing, packaging, and determining the shelf-life of cannabis and food products. Students will explore key topics such as:
Examination of various methods used in food and cannabis processing, including extraction, cooking, and preservation techniques.
Analysis of packaging materials and technologies that ensure product safety, extend shelf-life, and maintain quality, with a focus on compliance with industry regulations.
Understanding factors that influence shelf-life, including microbial stability, chemical changes, and environmental conditions, along with methods for conducting shelf-life studies.
Course Curriculum
Our comprehensive course curriculum covers the essential principles of processing, packaging, and shelf-life determination in the cannabis and food industries. It includes modules on processing techniques, packaging fundamentals, shelf-life analysis, quality control, and practical applications, equipping participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to optimize product quality and safety.
- Objectives of food and cannabis processing
- Overview of unit operations (mixing, heating, drying, extraction, etc.)
- Impact of processing on product quality and safety
- Pasteurization and sterilization
- Dehydration, freeze-drying, and vacuum drying
- High-pressure processing (HPP) and other novel technologies
- Drying and curing cannabis flower
- Decarboxylation principles (activation of THC/CBD)
- Extraction methods: CO₂, ethanol, hydrocarbon, and solventless
- Infusion and emulsification for edibles and beverages
- Functional ingredients in edibles (flavors, emulsifiers, binders)
- Homogeneity and dose consistency
- Product stability challenges (e.g., phase separation in infused drinks)
- Primary, secondary, and tertiary packaging
- Active and intelligent packaging systems
- Child-resistant, tamper-evident, and odor-proof packaging (cannabis-specific)
- Types of materials (glass, plastic, foil, paperboard)
- Migration, leaching, and interaction risks
- Packaging for light, moisture, and oxygen protection
- Shelf-life testing and prediction models
- Deterioration mechanisms (oxidation, microbial, enzymatic, physical)
- Expiry dating and best-before determination
- Use of preservatives (natural and synthetic)
- Water activity control and pH manipulation
- Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) and vacuum sealing
Course Schedule
Our 3-week program consists of two 4-hour sessions per week, designed to fit into your busy schedule.
9:00 AM – 01:00 PM
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
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