Variation among hemp (Cannabis sativus L.) analytical testing laboratories evinces regulatory and quality control issues for the industry

Abstract

Validated analytical testing of cannabinoid content for regulatory purposes is critical to farming high-cannabidiol (CBD) hemp (Cannabis sativus L.), as these methods are key to determine whether a crop is federally compliant by containing < 0.3% THC or must be destroyed at the time of harvest. This report identifies the sources and extent of variation in reported cannabinoid content after flower selection and conducted a survey of ten accredited hemp regulatory testing laboratories, including one state-owned laboratory. The results indicate that total tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content is reported inconsistently due to an insufficient standardization of sample preparation and testing methods, thus likely leading to erroneous data. This work represents the early phase of ongoing research to enhance the consistency of cannabinoid analyses of hemp flower samples as an essential tool in Cannabis crop development.