UK Announces Updates To CBD Novel Foods Approval Process
A growing body of peer-reviewed scientific research and consumer and patient testimonials has demonstrated that cannabidiol (CBD) is safe for human consumption, and in many cases, that CBD provides several wellness benefits.
Unfortunately, governments and public policies are often not on the same page as researchers, consumers, and patients. Various governments around the world either still prohibit CBD products or greatly hinder their legal availability.
One government that has notably moved slowly on modernizing CBD policies and regulations is the United Kingdom, although regulators in the UK did recently announce some changes and upcoming timelines pertaining to CBD products.
“The changes, published today, encourage businesses to meet a CBD provisional acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 10 mg per day of CBD (equivalent to 0.15 mg/kg of body weight per day of CBD for a 70kg adult) and the THC safe upper limit of 0.07 mg THC per day (equivalent to 1 µg/kg of body weight per day of THC for a 70kg adult).” the United Kingdom’s Food Standards Agency stated earlier this week in a news alert.
“The safe upper limit for THC has been agreed based on advice from our independent scientific advisory committees (Opens in a new window), also published today.” the government agency also wrote in its news release.
There are CBD companies in the United Kingdom who were in the middle of the process of gaining government approval to bring their products to the marketplace. Those companies are being afforded the opportunity to reformulate their products in an effort to bring them into compliance with the updated limits.
“The change to guidance encourages compliance with novel food regulations while prioritising public health. Allowing businesses to reformulate their products at this stage will make the authorisation process more efficient, while consumers will benefit from safer CBD products on the market.” stated the UK Food Standards Agency.
“Our pragmatic approach allows businesses to do the right thing for consumer safety while progressing towards full regulatory compliance. This flexibility creates a clearer path forward for CBD businesses while ensuring products meet our safety standards.” said Thomas Vincent of the Food Standards Agency.
A recent market analysis by The Research Insights estimates that “the global cannabidiol market size is projected to be valued at USD 9.14 billion in 2024 and reach USD 22.05 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 15.8%.”