UK says CBD should not be considered a drug

The UK’s rejection of the European Commission’s preliminary stance on the classification of CBD from hemp flowers as a narcotic drug reflects a positive change in cannabinoid regulation.

British disagreement with Europe’s opinion

The London FSA, or Food Standards Agency, which is responsible for overseeing drug policy in the United Kingdom, has expressed its disagreement with the European Commission’s preliminary stance that the current drug regulations should apply to CBD derived from hemp flowers. In order to deliver this opinion, Europe relied on the 1961 United Nations Convention, which only deals with the medical and scientific use of cannabinoids. 

The FSA stressed that, despite its disagreement, the legislative framework that applies in the UK remains in line with the EU Novel Foods Regulation and the requirements issued by the European Food Safety Authority. 

The European Commission’s stance, if it were to be translated into a new regulatory development, would hinder the efforts of several European countries to clarify their stance on CBD and to support the growth of the cannabinoid market.

Scientific studies demonstrating that CBD consumption is safe, as well as its benefits for health and well-being, are multiplying. An increasing number of people are using CBD to achieve physical and mental wellbeing. The UK is no exception to this trend! 

Changes to CBD regulation in the UK

The UK has seen a number of significant developments in cannabinnoid regulation in recent years. In 2017, the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency used the proven efficacy of CBD to classify the substance as a medical ingredient, provided it meets the country’s safety and quality standards.

In 2018, only doctors on the government were register were authorised to prescribe medical cannabis products. 

Products containing CBD, such as CBD oil, can be sold without an application for authorisation, provided that the packaging does not mention any health benefits and that the THC level remains at a concentration below 0.2%.

Some major retailers, such as Holland and Barrett, sell CBD products as a dietary supplement or skin care product. 

In order to regulate the sale of cannabinoids to the general public, the United Kingdom decided to classify CBD products as "Novel Food’ in February 2020". However, from 1st January 2020, a new European regulation on novel foods will apply. This category of food must be controlled and obtain European marketing authorisation.

The United Kingdom has therefore decided to incorporate European requirements into its regulations and is asking producers to follow this authorisation process. This law also applies to CBD products already on the market in the UK, which have until 31st March 2021 to be licensed. By expressing its disagreement with the European Commission, the UK has therefore decided to continue moving forward.