The Mary Jane Society Podcast

138_Talking Cannabis Extraction With Murphy Murri

Episode Notes

Today, we're discussing cannabis extraction with industry expert Murphy Murri. She has been working in extraction since the early days of legalization in Colorado and has built a reputation as a go-to expert in both solventless and BHO techniques. She helps extraction teams optimize their operations, develop new products, and write SOPs to ensure efficiency and quality. In this episode, we discuss how extractors can fine-tune their processes to preserve important compounds that are easily destroyed, as well as why more brands should apply sensory science to their R&D process for next-level product development. 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/murphymurri/

Episode Transcription

Show Outline

Early Days in the Cannabis Industry

• Discusses their background in the legal cannabis industry, starting in Colorado in 2009.
• The initial licensing in Colorado in 2010 introduced vertical integration, mandating that growers also sell their products.
• Describes their transition from retail to growing and operating commercial grows and labs.
• They highlight the challenges of forming a conglomerate of experts and the necessity of fixing operational issues.

Transition to Lab Work

• Shares their initial reluctance to work in a grow due to past experiences with chores.
• They express a preference for the lab, where they could focus on inventive processes and instant gratification.
• The regulatory environment was constantly changing, making compliance a significant challenge.
• Emphasizes the importance of manufacturing in the industry and their role in optimizing processes.

Development of Extraction Techniques

• Explains their transition to solvent-based extraction, starting with butane and propane.
• They discuss the challenges of maintaining compliance with changing regulations.
• Describes their work with extraction tech and the training they provided to operators.
• They highlight the importance of understanding the input material quality and the potential for cost efficiency.

Consulting and Training in the Industry

• Outlines their current role in consulting and training for various products and processes.
• They emphasize the importance of writing SOPs and developing new products with intention.
• Discusses the challenges of troubleshooting and optimizing processes for different clients.
• They express a preference for ownership in licensed facilities and consulting over direct operation.

Hemp and Veterinary Applications

• Mentions their involvement in a hemp business focused on isolates and formulations for pets.
• They discuss the unique challenges of formulating products for animals, including communication and specific needs.
• Highlights the importance of safer medicines for pets and the potential for cannabis-based treatments.
• They express excitement about the future of veterinary cannabis research and applications.

BHO Preference and Extraction Efficiency

• Inquires about the preference for BHO extraction and its efficiency compared to other methods.
• Explains the importance of evaluating input material quality and the potential for solvent-based extraction.
• They discuss the benefits of butane and propane as solvents, including their ability to extract cannabinoids without heating.
• Emphasizes the importance of making informed decisions about extraction processes and compromises.

Challenges in the Hemp Market

• Discusses the challenges faced by the hemp market, including overproduction and price fluctuations.
• They highlight the regulatory differences between hemp and cannabis and the impact on market dynamics.
• Expresses sympathy for fiber hemp growers who face competition from cannabinoid hemp.
• They discuss the importance of quality control and the need for better input material to ensure product quality.

Sensory Science in Extraction

• Asks about the role of sensory science in the extraction process.
• Explains the importance of sensory science in evaluating input material and optimizing processes.
• They discuss the challenges of standardizing sensory data and the need for more transparency in batch tracking.
• Emphasizes the importance of collecting data to improve processes and ensure consistent quality.

Future of Cannabis Extraction

• Inquires about the future of cannabis extraction and the potential for new equipment and technologies.
• Expresses optimism about the future but acknowledges the challenges ahead.
• They discuss the importance of consumer awareness and the need for better labeling and transparency.
• Emphasizes the need for standardization and collaboration within the industry to improve processes and products.