CBD UK is a resource that covers legal, scientific and consumer information about cannabidiol. It includes a summary of the current regulatory framework in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, as well as information on legalities for businesses that manufacture or supply CBD-based products in the UK.
Those who manufacture or supply CBD-based products in the United Kingdom should ensure that they comply with all relevant regulations. This includes the Food and Drugs Act 1988 (as amended) as well as regulations relating to novel foods.
What is CBD?
CBD is a natural plant-based compound that does not produce the psychoactive effects associated with other cannabinoids, like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It helps to improve sleep and can treat anxiety, pain, stress, and more.
CBD comes in many forms, including oils, tinctures, sprays, capsules and oral applications. However, it is important to know that not all CBD-rich products contain the same amount of CBD.
Before you begin taking CBD, talk to your doctor. Let them know what other drugs, herbs or supplements you take so they can assess if CBD might interact with these substances.
CBD as a novel food
CBD is a novel food under EU rules, meaning that it cannot be sold as a food, drink or supplement until it has been authorised. The EU’s Novel Food Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2015/2283) sets out the process for introducing new foods and ingredients to the market.
As a result, companies selling CBD products on the UK market need to submit a novel food application to the FSA prior to sale. The application will need to be validated by the 31st March 2021.
EFSA has issued a position statement saying that its scientists do not have sufficient data to evaluate CBD as a novel food due to ‘data gaps’ and ‘uncertainties’ about potential hazards. It is currently assessing 19 applications and plans to complete evaluations by 2023.
CBD as a traditional food
It is now possible to sell CBD-infused products derived from legally grown hemp. This is a huge step forward, especially for consumers who have struggled to find reliable products on the market.
It will also mean that larger, more sophisticated companies will be able to enter the industry. This is good news for customers, but it could have a detrimental effect on the smaller businesses that have been trying to get their foot in the door.
The UK’s Food Standards Agency is attempting to keep a handle on the growing number of CBD products being sold in the country, but it will test the strength and integrity of some smaller brands. It will likely only benefit the more serious, dedicated companies who can submit a comprehensive application.
CBD as a medicinal product
CBD is a substance found in cannabis (marijuana) plants. It can be used to treat a range of conditions, including anxiety, pain, seizures and muscle disorders such as dystonia and Parkinson disease.
There are many different products on the market containing CBD, in different forms and concentrations. These include tinctures, capsules and oils.
These can be taken orally, as a liquid, in tablet form and snorted. They are absorbed through the stomach into the bloodstream.
Medicinal cannabis products are not registered on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). They are available through a pathway called’special access’ and must be approved by the Therapeutics Goods Australia (TGA) before they can be prescribed.
CBD as a food supplement
CBD is a substance that can be found in hemp plants (Cannabis sativa). It’s not a psychoactive component and is used for a wide range of medical conditions, including anxiety, muscle spasticity, pain, and seizures.
As a supplement, CBD can be consumed in a variety of ways. It can be absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream, through topical creams, tinctures, or oils.
The Food and Drug Administration is currently considering a regulatory pathway for products that contain CBD. In the meantime, companies that market these products must remain diligent in their compliance efforts to avoid FDA enforcement actions.
