CBD in the UK
The UK has been one of the biggest CBD markets in recent years as there are various products available online and in stores. Plenty of research indicates that CBD oil positively impacts health and wellness, so it’s no wonder the CBD manufacturers are quick to point to them.
However, selling CBD in the UK requires learning about regulations and CBD advertising laws. UK residents can get CBD products anywhere these days, but they should also know how to spot the best product.
We’ll elaborate on this subject and also talk about CBD edibles. The UK law offers clear guidance and we’ll give you all the relevant details.
Understanding CBD
Before we go any further, it’s essential to take a step back and talk about what CBD is exactly. CBD is short for cannabidiol, one of many active chemical compounds in the Cannabis plant.
Unlike THC or tetrahydrocannabinol, another commonly occurring compound, CBD is non-psychoactive and will not get you “high”.
On the other hand, CBD is known to help with chronic pain, nausea, appetite, blood pressure, inflammation, insomnia, metabolism issues, and overall emotional well-being.
When buying CBD in the UK, you’ll likely notice that brands highlight these benefits and sometimes even exaggerate them.
Naturally, consumers want to buy legal cannabinoids. The UK enforces strict regulations around them, so it’s crucial to learn how to read the label.
CBD in the UK – Is It Legal?
The most straightforward answer is yes, CBD products are legal in the UK. However, that’s not where the conversation ends because they can only be legally sold if they are safe for the consumer. But what does that mean precisely?
It used to be that a CBD product, including oil, tinctures, and edibles, must not contain more than 0.2% of THC to be considered legal for sale. But since 2021, that’s no longer the case.
Overall, the maximum THC content per product is 1mg, including the cannabis resin. The reason why such a small amount of THC is even allowed in a product that’s considered a food supplement is that it’s complicated to remove it.
Another important part of the UK regulatory framework for CBD is that the oil must be extracted from EU approved, industrial-grade hemp.
You might wonder if you can grow your own hemp and extract legal cannabinoids? The UK residents are, in fact, not allowed to grow CBD plants for personal use without a permit.
However, those who want to grow hemp and extract it for personal use only can apply for a permit from the Home Office, the government body in charge of issuing such permits. It’s important to point out that it’s not easy to get this authorisation as applicants must abide by stringent rules.
Finally, when it comes to CBD brands and legal requirements for sales, the companies need to have started the process of acquiring a novel food label for their products.
CBD in the UK – Is It a Novel Food?
Are you thinking about trying CBD edibles? The UK law classifies them as novel foods, which have a precise definition. Essentially, a novel food is any food that has not been a regular and significant part of the human diet before 15 May 1997, which is when the first European Commission regulation pertaining to these issues came into force.
By definition, novel foods need to be safe for consumption and carry correct labelling. Furthermore, if a novel food replaces a particular product, it mustn’t be nutritionally disadvantageous. In 2019, CBD products had received the status of novel foods and were added to the Novel Foods Catalogue issued by the European Commission.
However, it doesn’t mean that every CBD product is automatically considered a novel food. On the contrary, every CBD manufacturer in the UK must apply for novel foods certification separately.
The application process is extensive and often expensive, as companies must fund third-party research and prove their product is not a risk to public health. The government body in charge of this process is the Food Standards Agency (FSA), which details the entire procedure.
Are CBD Edibles Legal in the UK?
While many CBD users prefer to take the supplement in oil form, usually combined with another type of nutritional oil, others prefer edibles.
The most popular option by far is CBD gummies, but there are countless options, including CBD-infused drinks, chocolate bars, or lollipops. Still, some might wonder if they can legally buy CBD edibles. The UK law allows the selling of CBD edibles, provided they follow all the rules mentioned above.
Many CBD consumers prefer taking CBD edibles to oil as it offers more convenience. These products come in pre-determined dosages, are easy to store and transport, and typically are more flavourful than CBD oil.
However, before choosing the perfect CBD edible for you, it’s essential to answer the question, “Is it legal to buy CBD edibles online?”. UK residents can shop freely for CBD products online, but they must be careful and check the manufacturer’s credibility. Also, social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram do not allow paid ads for CBD products.
So, are CBD edibles legal in the UK, and can they be bought online? Indeed, they are, but there are some platforms that don’t allow it. Therefore, caution is always advised.
CBD Advertising Laws in the UK
There’s no doubt that CBD products are trendy, and the trend is not slowing down either. But ever since they first hit the market, CBD oil and other products have seen some controversy.
While this incredible compound does bring many health benefits, CBD is not a legitimate treatment for any ailment. Unfortunately, some CBD manufacturers overstate what CBD can do in order to drive sales.
It’s also important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all rule regarding CBD products and advertising in the UK.
CBD products taken orally are considered food or medicine and will be subject to specific advertising regulations. But topical creams or CBD hygiene products would be regulated differently.
Generally, it’s important to avoid specific terms, such as:
Cures
Restores
Repairs
Stops
Treats
Eliminates
Heals
Fights
Navigating the CBD Market in the UK
The CBD market in the UK is vast and offers many choices to consumers. Whether you’re a CBD novice or have experience with this novel food, it’s pretty easy to find great products.
CBD in the UK is finally well-regulated, though it has been a long road. The regulations weren’t able to catch up with the quickly expanding market for some time, but they’re finally here.
Is it legal to buy CBD edibles online? UK laws say yes, even though some private social media platforms still don’t allow it. Brands can set up a website and advertise their products in different ways.
But when buying CBD products, be careful about labels, check for novel food certification, and don’t fall for marketing tricks. CBD oil is a fantastic natural supplement, not a miracle medicine.