GC-MS Analysis of the Total Δ⁹-THC Content of Both Drug- and Fiber-Type Cannabis Seeds

Abstract

A GC-MS method was performed to determine the total Δ⁹-THC content in both drug- and fiber-type cannabis seeds. Drug-type seeds were found to contain much higher levels of Δ⁹-THC (35.6–124 µg/g) than fiber (hemp) seeds (0–12 µg/g). The majority of Δ⁹-THC was found to be located on the surface of the seeds. Approximately 90% of the total Δ⁹-THC was removed by a simple, quick wash with chloroform. Washed drug-type seeds contained less than 10 µg/g. Separation of the seeds into the kernel and testa showed that the bulk of Δ⁹-THC is located in the testa, mainly on the outside. The kernels of drug- and fiber-type cannabis seeds contained less than 2 and 0.5 µg Δ⁹-THC/g seeds, respectively. Fluctuations in the Δ⁹-THC content of different replicates of the same type of seeds could be the result of the degree of contamination on the outside of the seeds.