Thujone dosage

Thujone is a bicyclic monoterpene ketone naturally present in several aromatic plants such as wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), sage, and thuja. This compound, known for its neurotoxic effects at high doses, is strictly regulated by European legislation, particularly in food products, food supplements, and alcoholic beverages such as absinthe.

Why measure thujone levels?

Thujone measurement is essential for:

• Ensuring regulatory compliance (EU Regulation No. 1334/2008 on food flavourings)
• Ensuring consumer safety, particularly for plant extracts used in nutraceuticals
• Validate product formulations containing essential oils rich in thujone
• Monitor volatile residues in food contact materials

Analytical methods used

The analysis is performed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID). These techniques allow:

• Sensitive detection of alpha and beta isomers of thujone
• Precise quantification in complex matrices (alcohol, plants, oils)
• A high specificity, essential for differentiating thujone from other monoterpenes

The analysis can be carried out according to recognized protocols or adapted to your specific regulatory needs.

Matrices involved

Thujone analysis is applicable to a wide range of industrial matrices:

• Essential oils (mugwort, sage, thuja, cedar)
• Extracts of medicinal plants
• Alcoholic beverages (absinthe, vermouth, bitters)
• Herbal food supplements
• Food packaging or materials that may migrate
• Natural cosmetics containing aromatic extracts

Regulations on thujone

The maximum thujone content is regulated in the EU according to the product category:

• Up to 35 mg/kg in spirit drinks containing Artemisia
• 10 mg/kg for drinks with sage
• 0.5 mg/kg in common foodstuffs

It is therefore crucial to validate each batch of ingredient or finished product, especially in the case of export or use of botanical mixtures.

Further analyses recommended

To ensure full compliance and better characterization of your extracts, we recommend:

• Camphor dosage – a close monoterpene
• Analysis of global migration – for packaging
• Coumarin dosage – if combined with aromatic plants

YesWeLab's expertise at your service for your regulatory obligations

At YesWeLab, we select the most suitable partner laboratory for each request, taking into account:

• From your sector of activity
• From the matrix to be analyzed
• Of the required analytical method (GC-FID, GC-MS, ISO 17025 accreditation)

Our team supports you from protocol definition to final analysis, including in the context of:

• Launching new products
• Quality control and traceability
• External audit or certification request

Get your thujone analysis quote

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Fast turnaround – Secure results – Guaranteed compliance.