Defense Date
2026
Document Type
Directed Research Project
Department
Forensic Science
First Advisor
Michelle Peace
Second Advisor
Kim Samano
Third Advisor
Delisa Dalgleish
Abstract
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) beverages, much like other cannabis products, are federally legal as long as they are compliant with the 2018 Farm Bill, and in some states are legal for recreational use. These beverages are not considered a part of medical programs states create. and states cansell these beverages at national retailers like Total Wine because they source the Delta-9 THC from synthetic, hemp-derived processes. It is common to see THC beverages made outside of the state it is being sold in, even though transportation over state lines is illegal. Previous studies conducted on these products solely focused on usage data or comparing effects of THC beverages to the effects of alcohol. There is very limited research on label accuracy, and whether or not potency can decrease over time due to cannabinoids sticking to the aluminum can. In this study, it was found that using the standard addition method improved extraction efficiency for the samples analyzed. It was also found that 44% of brands analyzed had Delta 9-THC concentrations +/-20% of the label claim, while only 11% of brands analyzed had CBD concentrations +/- 20% of label claim. Storage conditions were also investigated, and results reveal that room temperature storage conditions had higher concentrations of cannabinoids. More investigations are needed as there is a push to make THC beverages legal while remaining cannabinoid products become regulated. Since there are many factors to control, such as matrix type, nanoemulsion stability, relationship between aluminum and nanoemulsion, as well as the time the beverage sits on the shelf before being consumed, further research is required to better understand factors that affect stability, concentration and content of cannabinoid beverages purchased by consumers.
Rights
© The Author(s)
Is Part Of
VCU Master of Science in Forensic Science Directed Research Projects
Date of Submission
7-28-2026