Direct analysis of THC containing edibles using Py-GC/MS

Area of Science:

• Forensic Chemistry
• Analytical Chemistry
• Cannabinoid Analysis

Background:

• Edible cannabinoid products are popular for their psychoactive effects, necessitating robust analytical methods.
• Accurate monitoring of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) edibles is crucial for forensic and regulatory purposes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate Pyrolysis Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) as an effective technique for analyzing edible cannabinoids.
• To compare the sensitivity and efficiency of Py-GC/MS against traditional Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS).

Main Methods:

• Qualitative analysis of seven different edible cannabinoid samples collected between 2017-2022.
• Utilized Pyrolysis coupled with GC/MS (Py-GC/MS) for cannabinoid analysis.
• Compared results with traditional GC/MS analysis.

Main Results:

• Py-GC/MS demonstrated high reliability for edible cannabinoid analysis, achieving a linear regression (R² = 0.99) between concentration and abundance.
• Significantly reduced matrix effects were observed compared to standard GC/MS analysis.
• Py-GC/MS analysis required less sample preparation time and fewer chemical reagents, minimizing costs and potential human error.

Conclusions:

• Py-GC/MS is validated as a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective technique for the analysis of cannabis edibles.
• The method offers advantages in speed, simplicity, and reduced error compared to conventional GC/MS.
• This innovative application supports enhanced forensic analysis of edible cannabinoid products.