Metrc (Minnesota) Bulletin MN_IB_0069 announces updates to the Processing Job Category options in Metrc, with changes effective 08/07/2026. This article explains what is changing, which categories are being replaced or retired, and what Minnesota operators should do in Metrc to keep processing workflows and compliance records accurate.
Bulletin overview (MN_IB_0069)
State: Minnesota
Regulatory partner: OCM (Office of Cannabis Management) in conjunction with Metrc
Distribution date: 07/31/2026
Effective date: 08/07/2026
Subject: Processing Job Category updates in Metrc
Key takeaway: Metrc is updating the available Processing Job Categories; licensees should stop using older categories and align Processing Job Types to the new category set.
Why Processing Job Categories matter in day-to-day operations
In Metrc, Processing Job Categories standardize how facilities describe and track common production activities (for example, extraction, decarboxylation, formulation, and cartridge filling). Correct category selection supports consistent chain-of-custody reporting, improves internal traceability, and reduces confusion during audits or investigations because the “what happened” portion of processing is classified consistently across the state.
Operationally, these categories affect how staff set up Processing Job Types, how SOPs map to Metrc activities, and how managers review production history across lots, batches, and finished goods.
What changes on 08/07/2026 in Minnesota Metrc
Beginning 08/07/2026, Minnesota licensees will see an updated set of Processing Job Categories available in Metrc. Metrc also indicates that previous categories should be discontinued and no longer used as of this date, meaning operators should transition their Processing Job Types and internal workflows to the updated category set as soon as the change is in effect.
Processing Job Categories currently shown (pre-update)
Metrc listed the following categories as currently available prior to the update:
• Combining Batches
• Decarboxylation
• Extraction of Cannabinoids
• Filling Vape Cartridges
• Incorporation of Cannabinoids
• Making Artificially Derived Cannabinoids (ADCs)
• Preroll Production
Legacy categories scheduled to be unavailable by 10/01/2026
Metrc further specifies that certain categories will no longer be available for use as of 10/01/2026 and any Processing Job Types using them should be discontinued. Treat 08/07/2026 as the operational transition date (stop using the old categories), and 10/01/2026 as the system enforcement date when those categories are removed.
• Combining Batches
• Extraction of Cannabinoids
• Incorporation of Cannabinoids
• Splitting a Batch for R&D Testing
Updated Processing Job Categories available starting 08/07/2026
Metrc will make the following Processing Job Categories available in Minnesota beginning 08/07/2026:
• Decarboxylation
• Extraction of Cannabinoids, Solventless
• Extraction of Cannabinoids, Hydrocarbons
• Extraction of Cannabinoids, CO2
• Extraction of Cannabinoids, Ethanol
• Filling Vape Cartridges
• Formulation, Edible
• Formulation, Vape
• Formulation, Topical
• Infusion
• Making Artificially Derived Cannabinoids (ADCs)
• Preroll Production
• Purification, Winterization
• Purification, Distillation
• Purification, Isolation
This update increases specificity in extraction and purification activities (for example, separating extraction by method and purification by technique). For many facilities, this means better internal production analytics and clearer compliance narratives when reviewing processing history.
How to update Processing Job Types in Metrc (practical steps)
Metrc instructs licensees to discontinue Processing Job Types that use categories becoming inactive and remake them under the appropriate updated category.
Where to find them: In Metrc, go to the Admin tab and open Processing Job Types.
How to identify impacted setups: Use the Category column to locate any Processing Job Types tied to categories that will be retired.
How to discontinue: For each impacted Processing Job Type, use the “x” control on the right side of the row to discontinue it, then confirm the action.
How to re-create correctly: Rebuild discontinued Processing Job Types using the new categories (for example, replace “Extraction of Cannabinoids” with the correct method such as “Extraction of Cannabinoids, Ethanol” or “Extraction of Cannabinoids, Solventless”). Metrc references “Metrc Bulletin 34” for additional instruction on creating Processing Job Types; Minnesota users can locate it in the Metrc support resources.
Operational implications for Minnesota processors
SOP alignment: Update SOP language and training materials so production teams choose the new extraction, formulation, infusion, and purification categories consistently.
Data consistency: Decide internally which new category maps to each real-world process step (for example, ethanol vs. CO2 extraction) to avoid inconsistent entries between shifts or departments.
Change management timing: Plan to transition immediately when the update becomes effective on 08/07/2026, and complete any remaining cleanup well before 10/01/2026 to avoid disruptions when legacy categories become unavailable.
Compliance defensibility: More precise categories can reduce ambiguity during audits by clearly documenting the method used (especially for extraction and purification) and by improving the traceability story from input material to finished goods.
Packaging, retail labels, and Metrc Retail ID support
While this bulletin focuses on processing configuration, many compliance issues arise downstream when processed materials become packaged inventory and are prepared for sale. Accurate processing records support accurate product descriptions and batch history, which often tie directly to labeling and retail readiness.
DistruLabels: DistruLabels is a 100% free tool for creating compliant packaging and retail labels and can help teams stay aligned with Metrc Retail ID compliance by standardizing label generation workflows and reducing manual labeling errors.
DistruERP: For larger operators that need end-to-end supply chain control beyond label creation, DistruERP is Distru’s comprehensive Cannabis ERP platform designed to manage inventory, production, purchasing, sales, and compliance workflows in one connected system.
Metrc support and training resources
Metrc Support portal: Access support through https://support.metrc.com or by selecting Support within the Metrc application to be redirected to the portal. Metrc notes first-time access requires a username (created when logging in), the respective state and facility license number, and a valid email to set a password.
Metrc Learn training: Metrc Learn provides interactive training on system functionality. You can access it from the Support menu in Metrc (select “Sign up for Training”) or via https://learn.metrc.com.
Metrc Expert knowledge base: Within Metrc, use the widget icon in the lower right corner to open Metrc Expert for step-by-step guides and answers.
If you need help choosing the correct new category for a specific workflow (for example, distinguishing infusion vs. formulation, or mapping purification steps), documenting your process and contacting Metrc Support with examples can speed resolution and help keep entries consistent across your operation.
