Flame Ionization Detection

Flame Ionization Detection (FID) is an analytical technique used in gas chromatography to identify and quantify organic compounds, including cannabinoids and terpenes in cannabis samples. FID operates by ionizing organic molecules in a hydrogen flame, generating electrical signals proportional to compound concentration. In cannabis chemistry, FID is commonly employed to measure cannabinoid profiles and volatile terpene content, though it requires sample preparation and calibration against known standards. The method is valued in breeding programs and quality assurance for its sensitivity to carbon-based compounds and relatively straightforward interpretation of results. FID does not provide direct structural identification without coupled techniques like gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

Breeders and seed companies use FID data to standardize terpene and cannabinoid reporting across cultivar lines, supporting selective breeding programs targeting specific chemical phenotypes. Consistent FID testing helps document stability of secondary metabolite expression across generations and environmental conditions.