Optimization of analytical methods for the determination of pesticide residues in medicinal cannabis according to the European Pharmacopoeia.

Schusterova D.; Mraz P.; Benes F.; Drabova L.; Kocourek V.; Hajslova J. · Journal of chromatography. A · 2026

**Background & Methods** This review examines the optimization of analytical methods for detecting pesticide residues in medicinal cannabis according to European Pharmacopoeia standards. The study employed liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) techniques to determine 105 targeted pesticides at concentrations below maximum residue levels (MRL), with QuEChERS-style extraction using QuE Verde sorbent for matrix clean-up to address interference from phytocannabinoids and secondary metabolites. **Key Findings** • QuE Verde sorbent effectively reduced matrix co-extracts during sample preparation, with only methamidophos showing significant losses; the method was successfully applicable to both LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS analytical platforms. • Validation studies achieved recovery rates of 70-120% with relative standard deviations below 10% for both instrumental platforms, meeting European Commission requirements (SANTE/11312/2021 v2026). • Limits of quantification (LOQ) ranged from 0.02-1.0 mg kg⁻¹ for LC-amenable analytes and 0.01-0.05 mg kg⁻¹ for GC-amenable analytes, demonstrating suitability for all targeted analytes with MRL thresholds at or above 50% of established limits. **Dosage & Administration** Not reported. **Safety & Adverse Effects** Not reported. **Evidence Quality** This is a methodological review paper focused on analytical chemistry rather than clinical outcomes. The study demonstrates robust analytical validation with appropriate quality control parameters aligned with European regulatory standards. Limitations include the inability to assess clinical safety or efficacy, as this work addresses laboratory analytical procedures exclusively. The specificity to European Pharmacopoeia standards may limit direct applicability in jurisdictions with different regulatory frameworks. The successful method validation with recovery rates and relative standard deviations within acceptable ranges provides moderate-to-good evidence for the analytical approach proposed, though additional multi-laboratory studies would strengthen reproducibility claims. The primary contribution is technical advancement in pesticide residue detection methodology rather than clinical evidence.

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