Rugged isocratic LC-UV method for the analysis of 16 cannabinoids in hemp and cannabis samples

This application note outlines a simple and robust method for the detection and quantitation of 16 cannabinoids in hemp and cannabis samples using an isocratic HPLC method coupled with UV detection. Baseline separation of all 16 cannabinoids, including that of the critical pair Δ9-THC and Δ8-THC, was successfully achieved using a Selectra® C18 column. Examples of hemp flower and oil samples analyzed using the analytical method are also presented. With the widespread legalization of hemp and cannabis, this simple method will be beneficial for any research facility wanting to implement regulatory testing without fighting the wide variation of the matrices and interfering compounds (i.e. terpenes, pigments, etc.) in the diverse products that exist in the marketplace.