GC-MS analysis of the total Δ9-THC content of both drug- and fiber-type cannabis seeds

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.