Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis and the term “CBD” is often used to describe CBD-containing consumer products. CBD extracts can be found in a range of products such as oils, confectionery, bakery products and drinks.
CBD product use has grown significantly in the UK within the last year, with recent research commissioned by the Centre for Medicinal Cannabis revealing that the UK CBD market is worth £300 million, and is forecast to grow to >£1 billion by 2025.|
Announcing today on BBC Breakfast, Emily Miles, Chief Executive of the Food Standards Agency (FSA), is making it clear to industry that any CBD product producers who wish to sell their products in the UK ‘has a deadline of 31 March 2021 to submit valid novel food authorisation applications. After 31 March next year, only products which have submitted a valid application will be allowed to remain on the market. The authorisation process ensures novel foods meet legal standards, including on safety and content.’
Recent testing at Fera Science Limited (Fera) found levels of environmental contaminants, THC and CBN in CBD products currently on sale in the UK. Fera also found that the level of CBD in some products was very different to that shown on the label. Therefore, it is extremely important that all manufacturers/retailers take immediate action to apply for novel food authorisation in relation to any CBD extract products sold - or plan to sell in the future - in the UK. This also includes looking to seek assurances from suppliers/manufacturers that they have done so, we can support CBD manufacturers and producers with this marketing authorisation to determine its safety and import/export compliance.
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