Hemp Cigarettes Contain Similar Metal Levels as Tobacco, with Lower Cadmium but Higher Chromium in Some Brands

Researchers analyzed 14 commercial hemp cigarette brands for nine metals and compared them to published data on tobacco cigarettes and little cigars. All hemp cigarette filler had cadmium concentrations below the lowest reportable level, significantly lower than tobacco. However, concentrations of other metals (beryllium, chromium, manganese, cobalt, nickel, arsenic, lead, uranium) fell in ranges similar to tobacco products, with several brands exceeding some state action limits for chromium, nickel, arsenic, and lead.

Laboratory analysis of hemp filler from 14 commercial brands for nine metals (Be, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, As, Cd, Pb, U). Results compared to previously published US tobacco cigarette and little cigar data. NIST Reference Material used to verify analytical accuracy.

Hemp cigarettes are often marketed as tobacco alternatives or cessation aids, but their metal content had never been analyzed. Knowing that metal exposure risks are broadly similar to tobacco, with some brands exceeding state safety limits, is essential safety information for consumers.

As hemp cigarettes gain market share, the assumption that they are inherently safer than tobacco products needs scrutiny. Metal contamination is one piece of a larger safety picture that includes combustion byproducts and other chemicals of concern.

Analyzed filler content only, not smoke or emissions. Metal concentrations in the product do not directly predict metal delivery to the user. Comparison to tobacco data from separate studies introduces variability. State action limits vary and may not perfectly apply to smoked products.