Cannabinoids in hemp (cannabis) seeds

According to Regulation (EU) 2023/915 a maximum level of 3 mg/kg applies for Δ9-THC equivalents (Δ9-THC and Δ9-THCA) in hemp seeds. Consequently, hemp seeds must be tested for their THC content before being sold.

Concentration levels of cannabinoids in hemp seeds are low compared to the much higher concentration levels in the buds. Quantification of cannabinoids at low concentration levels is challenging, especially for complex matrices like hemp seeds.

Whole, not milled hemp seeds are provided as test material. Thus, the samples preparation is part of the ring test. The hemp seeds either contain endogenous levels of cannabinoids or are spiked with a selection of the parameters mentioned below. The corresponding unspiked material is provided as blank material. The blank material might contain endogenous levels of some of the cannabinoids.

The analytical data are assessed with respect to

• the correct identification of the spiked cannabinoids, 
• the comparability (z-score), and
• the trueness (70 to 120% of the spiked level, as far as applicable).