Ice Water Hash SOP
This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) outlines the method for producing Ice Water Hash from whole plant fresh frozen (WPFF) material to Wet Hash. It is crucial to follow these guidelines meticulously to achieve high-quality and uniform results.
WPFF to Wet Hash
1. Preparation
1.1. Equipment and Materials
Equipment:
- Ice water extraction apparatus or manual stirring tools
- Micron mesh bags
- Buckets (5-gallon or larger)
- Sieves
- Drying racks or screens
- Refrigeration units
- Clean, sterilized collection instruments (spoons, spatulas)
- Timer
- Thermometer
Materials:
- Whole plant fresh frozen (WPFF) material
- Ice (preferably purified)
- Clean, cold water (preferably purified)
1.2. Safety Precautions
- Wear suitable personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and aprons.
- Ensure the workspace is clean and sanitized.
- Maintain a cool environment to prevent thawing of WPFF material.
2. Process
2.1. Initial Setup
Objective: Prepare the workspace and materials for the extraction of ice water hash.
Steps:
- Confirm that the extraction machine or manual stirring setup is clean and ready for use.
- Fill the extraction machine or a large bucket with clean, cold water.
- Add ice to the water to keep the temperature between 32°F (0°C) and 40°F (4°C).
2.2. Adding Plant Material
Objective: Introduce WPFF material into the ice water mixture.
Steps:
- Retrieve the WPFF material from cold storage.
- Break down larger branches into manageable pieces while keeping the material frozen.
- Add the WPFF material to the ice water mixture.
2.3. Agitation
Objective: Agitate the mixture to detach trichomes from the plant material.
Steps:
- Start the extraction machine or begin manual stirring.
- Agitate the mixture for 15-20 minutes, ensuring gentle yet thorough mixing to avoid damaging the trichomes.
- Monitor the temperature, adding ice as needed to maintain the desired range.
2.4. Filtration
Objective: Filter the trichome-rich water through micron bags.
Steps:
- Set up a series of buckets with mesh bags of decreasing micron sizes (e.g., 220, 160, 120, 90, 73, 45, 25 microns).
- Pour the ice water mixture through the largest micron bag, allowing it to filter through each successive smaller micron bag.
- Use clean, sterilized collection tools to gently gather the material from each bag.
2.5. Collection of Wet Hash
Objective: Collect and combine the trichome material (wet hash) from the filtration process.
Steps:
- Carefully gather the trichome material from each micron bag, starting with the smallest size.
- Place the collected trichomes on a clean, cold surface or drying rack.
- Repeat the filtration and collection process as necessary to ensure all trichomes are collected.
3. Post-Processing
3.1. Drying
Objective: Initiate the drying process for the wet hash.
Steps:
- Spread the wet hash evenly on a drying rack or screen.
- Position the rack in a cool, dry, and dark area with good air circulation.
- Allow the wet hash to dry for several hours, monitoring to prevent mold growth.
3.2. Storage
Objective: Store the wet hash properly until further processing.
Steps:
- Once the initial drying is complete, transfer the wet hash to cold storage.
- Keep the hash in an airtight container to avoid contamination.
- Store the container in a cool, dark place to maintain the quality of the hash.
4. Quality Control
4.1. Inspection
Objective: Ensure the quality and consistency of the wet hash.
Steps:
- Inspect the hash for contaminants and ensure an even, consistent texture.
- Verify that the hash is free of excess plant material and ice particles.
4.2. Documentation
Objective: Maintain records of the extraction process.
Steps:
- Record the amount of WPFF material used.
- Document the yield and quality of the wet hash.
- Note any deviations from the standard procedure and their outcomes.
Conclusion
By adhering to this SOP for creating Ice Water Hash from whole plant fresh frozen material to Wet Hash, you will ensure a high-quality product. Consistency in following these steps will enhance efficiency, uphold quality standards, and improve the overall production process.