A leading UK laboratory has introduced new accredited testing methods as the cannabidiol (CBD) market moves toward a projected value of nearly £1 billion by the end of 2025. Broughton, a specialist in analytical and regulatory services, has launched ISO/IEC 17025-accredited methods for the quantitative determination of cannabinoids in oils and tinctures using high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). The methods also apply to selected e-liquids.
Market growth and regulatory context
The development arrives during a period of rapid expansion for the cannabinoid sector. IMARC Group analysis shows the UK CBD market reached £690 million (about USD 893.75 million) in 2024 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 11.60% through 2033. Oils and tinctures remain the most common product type, accounting for more than 70% of purchases among regular users, who spend an average of £24 per month.
Consumer interest has been strengthened by increased regulatory clarity. In December 2024, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) announced that an eight-week public consultation will begin in early 2025 to authorise the first low-risk CBD products by spring or summer.
Quality concerns drive demand for accredited testing
Despite market momentum, inconsistent product quality remains a challenge. Cannabinoid content can vary due to differences in raw materials, extraction methods and product applications. Concerns about inaccurate labelling and potency have highlighted the need for dependable verification.
ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation is recognised internationally for ensuring competence, impartiality and consistent laboratory performance. Within cannabinoid testing, it helps manufacturers meet FSA expectations by providing precise, traceable and defensible results. Industry experts note that accreditation reduces non-compliance risks, including potential recalls, while supporting broader market access.
Details of Broughton’s accredited method
Broughton’s new approach includes the dilution of oils or tinctures in solvent, followed by analytical measurement supported by calibration curves and internal standard correction. Results can be reported in several formats, including mg/mL, percentage concentration or mg per container. Quantitation of Total THC and Total CBD is available, supporting needs such as formulation development, batch verification and regulatory submissions.
HPLC-MS/MS provides sensitivity for detecting acidic and neutral cannabinoids without derivatisation, which is advantageous for complex oil-based matrices.
The method supports defined analytical ranges based on product strength
- For formulations containing 20% CBD or less: approximately 2.5 mg/g–245 mg/g.
- For formulations containing more than 20% CBD: approximately 8 mg/g to more than 800 mg/g.
These ranges enable consistent measurement across both low- and high-strength oils and tinctures.
Industry perspectives
“The ability to quantify cannabinoids in oil-based products using a validated and accredited method provides increased confidence in the data that informs formulation, quality control and regulatory compliance,” said Rowan Baxendale, Development Scientist at Broughton. Baxendale holds a BSc in Chemistry from Bangor University and has seven years of experience at Dechra Pharmaceuticals, specialising in cannabinoid method development.
Chris Allen, CEO at Broughton, added, “Providing accredited analytical methods for oils and tinctures reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting organisations with reliable data. As product formats evolve, having validated measurement frameworks in place helps ensure consistency and clarity in how cannabinoids are assessed.” Allen has led the company since its founding and previously secured the UK’s first medicinal licence for an electronic cigarette in 2010. Broughton’s facilities maintain GMP compliance alongside ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.
Broader implications for compliance and innovation
The service aligns with the FSA’s push for validated testing to prevent misleading claims. More than six million UK adults tried CBD in the past year, and product categories continue to diversify, including beverages and topicals. The availability of accredited testing supports transparency and strengthens the UK’s broader efforts to build a stable domestic supply chain through hemp cultivation in the Crown Dependencies.
Broughton’s initiative extends its existing portfolio, which includes screening for contaminants such as pesticides and heavy metals. With the FSA’s authorisation process approaching, accredited data will be essential to demonstrate low-risk product status and may speed the introduction of novel foods like CBD oils to market.
Impact on consumers
Consumers are expected to benefit from clearer, more reliable information about cannabinoid content. As the UK CBD market continues on its double-digit growth path, initiatives like Broughton’s reinforce industry maturity by combining scientific rigor with increased accountability.