FAQs
If you don’t see the answer to your question in the list below,
please feel free to contact us.
please feel free to contact us.
How Accurate is the Ekidna Test?
Ekidna is as accurate as a lab, with an error rate of about +/- 1% by weight. It can currently be used for flower samples that range from 5–30% THC.
Can I Use Ekidna to Test Both Wet and Dry Samples?
Yes. As of February 2022 our team will have fully validated the accuracy of dry sample testing, and in July 2022 we’ll have the full validation of the results for wet (right off the plant) samples.
Later in 2022, Ekidna will be able to test liquid samples. This will involve a calibrated syringe that will make accurate sampling easy.
How Long Does the Test Take?
About 5 minutes.
Can I Try Out Ekidna Before Making a Major Purchase?
Yes. Ekidna is easy and inexpensive to try — there’s nothing for us to come and install, and because there’s no maintenance you don’t have to sign a service contract. There is no charge to borrow a reader, so all you pay for is the number of tests you want to run.
Before we lend you a reader, however, we’ll want to discuss your needs. For larger operations we could potentially travel to your location. For smaller operations, equipment trials may need to stay within the Eastern Ontario-Outaouais region.
What Is the Price Range for the Ekidna Solution?
Ekidna is much less costly than mailing samples to a lab or setting up, staffing and maintaining your own lab. Ekidna is also much less expensive than optical testing solutions. The exact cost would depend on your specific needs. For example, how many readers do you need for your facility? How many tests do you expect to run in a month?
Can Ekidna Be Used for Regulatory Testing?
No. Ekidna is extremely accurate when it comes to detecting cannabinoids. For regulatory testing, however, samples need to be checked for other materials, like pesticides and heavy metals. Ekidna’s results can be used to determine THC, THCa, CBD, and CBDa amounts for pro forma contracts, however.
Can I Use the Ekidna to Test Hemp Samples?
We’re working on confirming this. Please contact us to get further details.
I’ve Heard That There’s a Global Chip Shortage. If I Use Ekidna, Will This Affect My Supply Chain?
No. Ekidna is manufactured almost entirely in North America (specifically, Ontario, Canada). Our main manufacturing partners are LD Tool & Die, the same company that manufactures test kits for 23andMe DNA ancestry and genetic health risk assessment reports, and Microart, also located in Ontario.
There are no “chips” per se in the test tube caps: the sensors and their component materials are entirely manufactured in North America.
Some parts for the reader are manufactured in the Netherlands. While the reader does require the use of chips, our Ontario manufacturing facility is well stocked. Microart has built strong relationships with trusted suppliers over many years, and does not currently anticipate a shortage.
How Do I Dispose of the Used Test Kits?
There are several options.
For clients in the Eastern Ontario-Outaouais area, we can provide you with a container, and we will pick that up for you when it’s full.
In some areas, depending on local regulations, you may need to dispose of the test kits in a
hazardous waste container.
In some other areas the kits may be recyclable — we are currently investigating the feasibility of this, as the solvent may have an impact.
Is There a Shelf Life for the Test Kits?
We don’t expect shelf-life to be a problem, but to be on the safe side we’re recommending that clients use their test kits within 6 months until we can verify that they can be stocked for longer periods.
Don’t See Your Question Here?
We’d be happy to answer any further questions you may have. Simply reach out to us.
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