Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabinoid present in most parts of the Cannabis and hemp plants. Unlike THC, CBD generally has no intoxicating effect. In its pure form, CBD is permitted for human use in the United Kingdom (UK) as it is not present on a list of controlled substances within the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001.
In 2019, the novel food status of CBD was reviewed by the European Union (EU) Member States. It was determined that because CBD does not have a history of consumption in Europe prior to 1997, that a safety assessment would be required to confirm it is safe for use as a food ingredient. Companies interested in selling CBD in a food product are required to seek authorization before the ingredient can be legally marketed in the UK.
The UK is governed under European law until January 1, 2021, at which time the transition period for the UK to leave the EU will end. This allows the UK to regulate food ingredients separately from the European Commission. Therefore, starting January 1, 2021, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) will begin to accept novel food authorization applications for CBD. Companies with existing food products containing CBD must have a validated novel food authorization application in place by March 31, 2021, to remain in the UK market. New CBD products are required to have authorization before entering the UK market.
Our services related to novel food authorizations for CBD in the UK include:
• Evaluation of existing safety data for your ingredient
• Identifying technical and scientific data gaps and recommending solutions
• Coordinating the conduct of toxicological studies when required
• Conducting literature searches and data gathering
• Preparation and submission of novel food applications and liaising with FSA