Japan Enhances Supervision of Cannabis-related Controlled Products

On May 30, 2024, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) of Japan issued the Standard Analytical Method forΔ9-THC Content in Cannabis-Derived Products (Draft), seeking for public comment till June 29, 2024.

This draft covers the samples, preparation and its determination. It uses techniques such as LC-MS/MS or LC-QTOF MS to measure trace levels of Δ9-THC (up to 0.10 mg/kg in beverages, 10 mg/kg in oils, and 1 mg/kg in other cannabis-derived products), in compliance with regulatory limits.

Cannabis plants are known to contain more than 120 different types of cannabinoid ingredients. The major cannabinoids include Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), which has psychoactive effects, and cannabidiol (CBD), which lacks those psychoactive properties. In cannabis-derived products, the total Δ9-THC content is typically expressed as the sum of Δ9-THC and Δ9-THCA-A levels. The proposed draft aims to establish a standardized approach for accurately measuring the Δ9-THC concentration in such products.

Notably, alternative analytical methods may be applied if they demonstrate equivalent or superior detection sensitivity and accuracy compared to the procedure outlined in the draft.

Recommended reading:

• Japan Designates Tetrahydrocannabihexol (THCH) as A Controlled Substance

• Japan Bans on Six Substances in Food Products