CBD innovation: AOAC approves method for hemp cannabinoid analysis

30 Apr 2020 --- AOAC International has approved of a liquid chromatography-diode array detection (LC-DAD) method for hemp. The method was previously approved as the Official Method of Analysis to quantitatively analyze 12 major cannabinoids in cannabis plant materials, concentrates and oils. In other hemp sector news, Medterra has launched three new additions to its cannabidiol (CBD) gummy portfolio and Green Hygienics Holdings has received US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Organic Certification for its hemp cultivation facilities.

The LC-DAD approval will allow laboratories to evaluate hemp for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on a dry-weight basis, as described by the US Department of Agriculture’s Interim Final Rule governing the production of hemp under the 2018 Agriculture Improvement Act. Testing for THC levels is a fundamental part of the program.

The new method can now be applied to all concentrates, extracts, and plant materials of the Cannabis species, including hemp. “Until now, no globally recognized method for validating the potency of hemp was available to laboratories,” says Scott Coates, Program Lead for AOAC’s Cannabis Analytical Science Program.

Medterra's new vegan-friendly CBD gummies contain 25 mg of the company’s pure CBD.Hemp NPD innovation
The CBD sector has been busy bringing new product innovations to the market. CBD brand Medterra launched three new vegan-friendly CBD gummies, containing 25 mg of the company’s pure CBD. The latest arrivals are THC-free, non-GMO and certified by the US Hemp Authority.

• Stay Alert Gummy (Citrus): Pairs CBD with ginkgo biloba, guarana and green tea extract for additional mental focus and increased brain energy.
• Keep Calm Gummy (Tropical Fruit): Blends CBD with L-Theanine, known to promote relaxation without drowsiness.
• Sleep Tight Gummy (Strawberry): Combines CBD with melatonin, chamomile, 5HTP, lemon balm and passionflower for an easy night's sleep that won't cause morning grogginess.

On top of Medterra’s standard 30-gummy pack, the company is now offering two-count and five-count offerings that will also be available in the coming weeks at various US retailers. The launch follows Medterra’s recent over-the-counter registered Pain Cream and Broad Spectrum Tinctures additions.

Also based in California, Green Hygienics Holdings has received USDA Organic Certification for its 824-acre farm plus 400,000 square feet of greenhouse space. This verification assures that no synthetic fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides have been used in the cultivation of hemp. It also ensures that farmers use tillage and cultivation practices that maintain high-quality soil conditions and minimize soil erosion through crop rotations, cover crops and the application of plant and animal materials.

In CBD business news, Texas-based Puration aims to publish an update on the company's CBD business acquisition campaign. The company launched the campaign earlier this year, backed by a US$5 million investment. Two acquisitions have already been closed and the company recently announced entering into due-diligence engagements on three more prospective acquisition opportunities.

In February, US President Donald Trump requested US$5 million from the FY2021 budget to regulate the CBD industry to allow the Food and Drug Administration to continue enforcing protection laws safeguarding patients and consumers. The money would also provide potential regulatory pathways for products containing cannabis and cannabis-derived compounds. 

Edited by Anni Schleicher