the line between natural and synthetic cannabinoids is becoming increasingly important, especially when it comes to testing and consumer safety.
Whether you’re a grower, processor, retailer, or consumer, understanding the difference can help you navigate this evolving space with confidence.
What Are Natural Cannabinoids?
Natural cannabinoids are compounds that occur organically in the cannabis plant. These include familiar names like:
- THC (Δ9-THC)
- CBD (Cannabidiol)
- CBG, CBN, THCV, and many others
These cannabinoids are typically extracted from cannabis or hemp flower using mechanical or chemical extraction methods—without altering their original chemical structure.
What Are Synthetic Cannabinoids?
Synthetic cannabinoids are created through chemical synthesis, either by modifying naturally occurring cannabinoids (like converting CBD into Delta-8 or Delta-9 THC) or by creating entirely new compounds that don’t exist naturally in the plant.
There are two major categories:
- Semi-synthetic cannabinoids
Made by chemically altering natural cannabinoids
Common examples: Delta-8 THC, Delta-10 THC, HHC, THC-O - Fully synthetic cannabinoids
Lab-made compounds with no natural counterpart in the cannabis plant
Examples: K2, Spice — these are often dangerous and unregulated
Why the Difference Matters in Testing
From a lab perspective, the origin of a cannabinoid can significantly affect how it’s detected, quantified, and evaluated for safety. Here’s why:
1. Chemical Stability and Unknown Byproducts
- Natural cannabinoids have been studied for decades.
- Synthetic cannabinoids—especially newer or obscure ones—may contain unknown degradation products or residual solvents from the synthesis process.
- Some compounds may convert into other substances over time or under heat, which can affect test results and product safety.
2. Testing Method Limitations
- Standard potency panels target naturally occurring cannabinoids.
- Synthetic variants may require specialized standards from ISO accredited sources to detect accurately. These standards can be difficult to source.
- Some synthetic cannabinoids are chemically similar, making it difficult to distinguish them from each other without advanced techniques like mass spectrometry.
3. Regulatory Gray Areas
- Some states ban synthetic cannabinoids outright. Others don’t regulate them at all.
- Many hemp-derived products sold in convenience stores or online contain Delta-8 or Delta-10 THC that’s converted from CBD yet labeled as “hemp” and often untested or misrepresented.
Proper testing is essential to ensure these products are:
- Free from harmful contaminants
- Labeled accurately
- Compliant with local laws
4. Consumer Safety
The biggest concern? Unregulated synthetic cannabinoids have been linked to serious health issues.
Inconsistent manufacturing, undisclosed ingredients, and lack of testing oversight can result in:
- Toxic byproducts
- Unexpected psychoactive effects
- Dangerous interactions with other substances
How Labs Like Ours Approach It
At Acrelabs, we recognize the complexity of testing in today’s cannabinoid market. That’s why we:
- Stay current with emerging synthetic compounds
- Use validated methods for Delta-8 and other novel cannabinoids
- Test for residual solvents, heavy metals, mycotoxins, microbiogicals and pesticides.
- Stay current on the latest state rules
Whether you’re formulating a new product or reviewing your supply chain, understanding what’s in your material is non-negotiable.
Final Thoughts
The cannabinoid space is evolving, and so is the chemistry behind it. The rise of synthetics has opened up new possibilities—but also new risks. Knowing what you’re working with and working with a lab that knows how to test it, is the key to staying compliant and protecting your brand and your customers.
Have questions about synthetic cannabinoids or testing protocols? Reach out to our team, we’re here to help.
