Isotopic Characterization of Italian Industrial Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) Intended for Food Use: A First Exploratory Study

In this study, Italian industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) intended for food use was isotopically characterized for the first time. The stable isotope ratios of five bioelements were analyzed in different parts of the plant (i.e., roots, stems, inflorescences, and seeds) sampled in eight different regions of Italy, and in five hemp seed oils. The values of delta H-2, delta C-13, delta O-18, and delta S-34 differed according to the latitude and, therefore, to the geographical origin of the samples and the climate conditions of plant growth, while the delta N-15 values allowed us to distinguish between crops grown under conventional and organic fertilization. The findings from this preliminary study corroborate the reliability of using light stable isotope ratios to characterize hemp and its derived food products and contribute to the creation of a first isotopic database for this plant, paving the way for future studies on authentication, traceability, and verification of organic labeling.

Automated summary

This study isotopically characterized Italian industrial hemp for the first time and found that the stable isotope ratios varied according to latitude, geographical origin, and climate conditions. The reliability of using stable isotope ratios to characterize hemp and its food products was confirmed, contributing to the establishment of an isotopic database and future research on authentication and traceability.