Human olfactory detection of packaged cannabis

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Sensory Science
• Criminology

Background:

• Olfactory detection of cannabis aroma is a common basis for warrantless vehicle searches in the U.S.
• The odor originates from dried cannabis flower, often concealed in various packaging types.
• The effectiveness of odor detection may be influenced by the packaging format used.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if different cannabis packaging formats affect odor detectability.
• To evaluate the accuracy of olfactory identification of packaged cannabis by untrained observers.
• To provide data relevant to law enforcement's use of cannabis odor in probable cause determinations.

Main Methods:

• Two cannabis strains and five distinct packaging formats were assessed.
• Untrained observers were tasked with identifying the container with cannabis solely by smell.
• A control container with identical, empty packaging was used for comparison.

Main Results:

• Cannabis in open or casually packaged formats was identified with high accuracy.
• Cannabis packaged in doubly vacuum-sealed plastic was detected at chance levels.
• Packaging significantly alters the detectability of cannabis aroma.

Conclusions:

• The study demonstrates that advanced packaging can effectively mask cannabis odor.
• Findings have implications for legal standards regarding probable cause based on cannabis scent.
• Further research could explore optimal packaging for odor containment in various contexts.