Tim Anderson

Cannabinoids are successfully extracted from a complex brownie matrix using the QuEChERS sample preparation technique, significantly reducing the presence of matrix interferences. The resulting clean samples are analyzed by GC–MS using a specialized deactivated GC column to provide heightened peaks for the cannabinoid compounds.

Cannabinoids are successfully extracted from a complex brownie matrix using the QuEChERS sample preparation technique, significantly reducing the presence of matrix interferences. The resulting clean samples are analyzed by GC–MS using a specialized deactivated GC column to provide heightened peaks for the cannabinoid compounds.

Gas chromatography (GC) is an established and well-understood technique. As the cannabis industry grows, demand for analytical robustness is increasing for analytes such as pesticides, residual solvents, and terpenes. GC and GC coupled to mass spectrometry (GC–MS) are effective tools to address the demands of laboratories, growers, manufacturers, and consumers. This article provides an overview of the types of compounds that can be analyzed by GC, reviews the strengths and weaknesses of the analytical methods, and discusses areas of opportunity for chromatography.