Analysis of 80 unregulated CBD products found most contained multiple minor cannabinoids (CBDV, CBG, CBC, CBN) at varying concentrations, none of which were listed on product labels.
CBD consumers, regulators, and researchers studying CBD product effects.
100% of CBD products contained CBDV, and 67-77% contained CBG, CBC, and CBN not listed on labels
What the researchers found
Among 80 over-the-counter CBD products, the most frequently detected minor cannabinoids were CBDV (100%), CBG (77%), CBC (72%), CBN (67%), CBL (67%), and CBDA (51%). Delta-8 THC was not detected. Concentrations varied widely (e.g., CBDA: 0.006-12.258 mg/mL). The pharmaceutical control (Epidiolex) was used for comparison. None of these minor cannabinoid concentrations were on product labels.
Why it matters
Consumers using CBD products are unknowingly exposed to multiple other cannabinoids whose effects and interactions are poorly understood. This lack of transparency undermines informed consent and complicates research on CBD effects.
The numbers in context
80 products tested. CBDV: 100% detection. CBG: 77%. CBC: 72%. CBN: 67%. CBL: 67%. CBDA: 51%. Delta-8 THC: 0%. CBDA concentration range: 0.006-12.258 mg/mL. 15 cannabinoids targeted.
How the study worked
Cross-section of 80 local and national hemp-derived CBD oil products purchased online and in retail outlets in central Kentucky. Solvent extraction and quantification by LC-MS/MS targeting 15 minor cannabinoids. Epidiolex included as regulated control.
What this study cannot tell us
Kentucky-based sample may not represent national or international markets. Products tested at one point in time; batch variation is unknown. Does not assess whether detected concentrations are pharmacologically relevant. 80 products is a sample, not comprehensive coverage.
How to read the evidence
Rigorous analytical chemistry with validated methods and pharmaceutical control, though limited to 80 products from one region.
When this study was published
2025 publication.
The bigger picture
The ubiquity of minor cannabinoids in CBD products means that any consumer or research experience with "CBD" is actually an experience with a complex cannabinoid mixture. This confounds both personal use decisions and clinical research.
Questions still open
- Are the minor cannabinoid concentrations found in CBD products sufficient to have biological effects?
- Should regulators require minor cannabinoid disclosure on CBD product labels?
Read the original research
Minor Cannabinoid Profile of Unregulated Cannabidiol Products.
Cannabis and cannabinoid research, 10(2), 220-227
Citation
Johnson, Erin; Kilgore, Michael; Nuzzo, Paul; Babalonis, Shanna. (2025). Minor Cannabinoid Profile of Unregulated Cannabidiol Products.. Cannabis and cannabinoid research, 10(2), 220-227. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2024.0058
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