In 2020 a Collaborative Study (CS) was carried out to support the development of an ISO standard for an analytical method for the measurement of B[a]P in mainstream cigarette smoke with the ISO 20778 smoking regime.

Data from the two GC/MS methods for analysing B[a]P (methanol extraction and cyclohexane extraction) were compared.

Statistical results demonstrated differences in the mean yields of B[a]P and the reproducibility (R) figures of the two methods, but these were small enough to be neglected. Therefore, it was concluded that the methods are fit for purpose for cigarette products of various designs and construction with the ISO 20778 smoking regime.