Nitrosamines in Cannabis and Hemp

Introduction

Nitrosamines are among the most closely monitored contaminants in pharmaceuticals, food, and tobacco. In cannabis, they have received little attention.

These compounds can form naturally during drying, curing, or storage when nitrogen compounds react with nitrites. The process is similar to how nitrosamines develop in other plant-based materials.

As testing standards progress, understanding how and when these compounds form will become an important part of product safety and compliance.

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Why Nitrosamines Matter

Several nitrosamines, including NDMA, NDEA, and NDELA, are classified as probable human carcinogens. They have been monitored for decades in industries such as tobacco and pharmaceuticals, yet cannabis testing rarely includes them.

Nitrosamines can appear when amines from plant material react with nitrites, especially in warm or low-oxygen environments. This means they can form at different stages of production, from cultivation to storage.

Inhaled cannabis products present a particular risk. Any nitrosamines present can be absorbed directly into the lungs, even at very low concentrations. Other sectors have already acted to reduce similar exposures, and cannabis testing is likely to follow as standards develop.

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How They Are Detected

Detecting nitrosamines requires high sensitivity and a method that can identify total levels or individual compounds. These compounds are often present at parts-per-billion levels, which makes them difficult to measure with routine screening methods.

Two approaches are typically used:

Total nitrosamine screening gives an overall indication of contamination. The ATNA (Automated Total Nitrosamine Analyser) measures total nitrosamine content in a sample without identifying individual compounds.
Speciated analysis identifies and quantifies specific nitrosamines such as NDMA, NDEA, and NDELA. This is done using the Ellutia 200 Series GC paired with a Thermal Energy Analyser (TEA), which provides the sensitivity required for trace-level detection.

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Both techniques are already used in regulated industries such as tobacco and pharmaceuticals. Applying them to cannabis testing is a logical next step as safety expectations grow.

If you’d like an overview of how GC fits into cannabis testing workflows, take a look at the Cannabis Testing Buyers Guide.

The Growing Need for Nitrosamine Testing

Many of the same conditions that improve quality and stability in cannabis can also support nitrosamine formation. Temperature, moisture, and oxygen control are central to curing and extraction, and all three can influence the reactions that create nitrosamines.

Most cannabis testing focuses on cannabinoids, terpenes, residual solvents, and pesticides. These remain important, but they do not address all potential contaminants. As regulations mature, nitrosamine testing may be added to compliance panels, especially for products designed for inhalation.

Understanding the chemistry now allows producers and laboratories to take preventative steps, improve processes, and prepare for future regulation.

Looking Ahead

Nitrosamine analysis is already standard in many industries, but its use in cannabis is still developing. The techniques and instruments are well established; what is still growing is awareness and regular testing.

As compliance standards evolve, taking an early interest in nitrosamine control will help producers and laboratories stay prepared and demonstrate a commitment to product safety.