CBD oils on the Belgian market: A validated MRM GC-MS/MS method for routine quality control using QuEChERS sample...

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Pharmacognosy

Background:

• CBD oil quality control reveals discrepancies between label claims and actual CBD content.
• Oily matrices in CBD samples pose analytical challenges, including instrument damage and reduced column lifespan.
• Existing methods struggle with matrix complexity, high standard costs, and low Δ9-THC concentrations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a robust analytical method for routine CBD oil analysis.
• To address the need for accurate quantification of CBD and screening of other cannabinoids.
• To ensure legal compliance by accurately measuring Δ9-THC content.

Main Methods:

• Sample cleanup utilizing the QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe) technique to remove the oily matrix.
• A validated multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) method for precise cannabinoid quantification.
• Analysis of eighteen CBD oil samples from the Belgian market.

Main Results:

• The method successfully quantifies CBD, screens for seven other cannabinoids (CBN, CBDV, CBT, CBC, Δ8-THC, THCV, CBG), and checks Δ9-THC legality.
• Validation demonstrated accuracy within ±20% for CBD and CBN, with 90% of measurements falling within this range.
• Low detection limits (10-14 ng/mL) were achieved for targeted cannabinoids.

Conclusions:

• The proposed QuEChERS-GC-MS/MS method is suitable for routine analysis of CBD oils, offering reliable quality control.
• This validated procedure overcomes matrix complexities and provides accurate cannabinoid profiling.
• The method supports market surveillance and ensures product safety and regulatory compliance.