Matrix CRM of oil containing cannabinoids METRANAL® CRM AN-BM04

Significance of the topic

Cannabinoid analysis in complex matrices requires well-characterized reference materials to ensure accuracy, reproducibility and compliance with regulatory standards. Certified reference materials (CRMs) for cannabinoids support method validation, instrument calibration and the establishment of metrological traceability to SI units, which is essential for quality assurance in pharmaceutical, food and forensic laboratories.

Objectives and overview

The CRM AN-BM04 consists of MCT oil spiked with hemp extract and individual phytocannabinoids. The certificate documents the preparation, homogeneity, stability and assigned values of selected cannabinoids according to ISO Guide 31. The material is intended to provide a calibration benchmark and transfer of property values to similar matrices.

Methodology

The oil was spiked with a defined hemp extract and pure cannabinoid standards. Homogeneity and short-term stability assessments were performed following ISO Guide 35 in collaboration with an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory. An international inter-laboratory comparison involving quality-assured analytical laboratories established the overall mean values.

Instrumentation

Recommended analytical techniques involve liquid chromatography using certified calibration standards traceable to SI units. Calibration solutions and/or matrix CRMs of similar composition ensure direct metrological traceability. Specific instrumentation models are not detailed in the certificate but typically include HPLC or UHPLC systems coupled with UV or mass spectrometric detectors.

Main results and discussion

Seven cannabinoids were certified or given indicative status based on the number of accepted laboratory results. Key certified values (mass fraction w/w) with expanded uncertainties (k=2) are:

• CBD: 5.33 % ± 0.18 %
• Δ9-THC: 0.1258 % ± 0.0148 %
• CBDA: 0.0329 % ± 0.0034 %
• Δ9-THCA-A: 0.0320 % ± 0.0023 %
• CBN: 0.0736 % ± 0.0027 %
• CBG: 0.0442 % ± 0.0068 %
• CBC: 0.0639 % ± 0.0035 %

Minor cannabinoids (CBGA, CBDV, CBCA, THCV, CBL) are reported as indicative values. The dominant uncertainty contribution arises from characterization.

Benefits and practical applications

The CRM AN-BM04 enables:

• Validation and verification of chromatographic methods for cannabinoid profiling.
• Calibration of instruments and traceability to SI units.
• Inter-laboratory comparisons and quality control in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and regulatory environments.

Future trends and potential uses

Development of matrix-matched CRMs for novel cannabinoids and minor constituents will support emerging research and legal requirements. Advances in high-resolution mass spectrometry and non-targeted screening could drive demand for multi-component CRMs. Digital certification and blockchain-enabled traceability may enhance transparency and data integrity.

Conclusion

CRM AN-BM04 offers a robust, ISO-compliant reference for quantitative cannabinoid analysis. Its demonstrated homogeneity, stability and internationally validated values make it a valuable tool for ensuring analytical accuracy and harmonizing results across laboratories.

References

ISO Guide 31: Reference materials – Contents of certificates and labels
ISO Guide 35: Reference materials – General and statistical principles for certification
ČSN EN ISO/IEC 17025:2018 – General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories
ČSN EN ISO 17034:2017 – General requirements for the competence of reference material producers