Analysis and Toxicological Evaluation of Cannabinoids in Hemp Food Products - a review

After having abolished the prohibition of the cultivation of the species Cannabis sativa L. (so-called fibre hemp) with minor content of the psychoactive Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a wide variety of hemp food products is currently offered on the market. In this review, an introduction to the botany of the hemp plant and the current law situation in Germany and the European Union is presented. A survey of the analytic techniques used to verify compliance with the guidance values is given and the THC content of hemp food products is discussed in regard to its toxicology. In particular, the forensic-toxicological aspects regarding the influence of hemp food on drug tests are described.