Eight-week public consultation - Progress on CBD Novel Food Applications - December 2024
In advance of the FSA’s 11th December Board meeting, the authority have issued a report by Thomas Vincent and CBD Policy Team on 28th November 2024.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Food Standards Scotland (FSS) are on track to make their first recommendations to Ministers by Spring/Summer 2025. This will follow an eight-week public consultation starting in early 2025.
This milestone is crucial for the CBD industry as it moves towards compliance and the eventual authorisation of CBD products under the UK’s novel food regulations. Businesses should prepare now to ensure they are ready to engage with the consultation and align their practices with these new developments.
Initial Safety Assessments Completed
The FSA and FSS have published initial safety assessments for CBD novel food applications, focusing on products with highly purified CBD isolates. These assessments are a major step in building a safe and regulated market for CBD products. They also set the stage for the next steps in the authorisation process, ensuring that only products meeting the required safety and quality standards will remain on the market. Three applications of isolate based CBD products have been authorised to date.
Advisory for Vulnerable Groups
The FSA has highlighted that CBD products are not suitable for everyone. While a daily intake of up to 10 mg has been deemed safe for healthy adults, vulnerable groups are advised to avoid CBD. This includes children, pregnant and breastfeeding individuals, those trying to conceive, people taking regular medication, and anyone with a weakened immune system. Businesses should take care to communicate these recommendations clearly to their customers.
Entering the Risk Management Phase
With the safety assessments complete, applications have now moved into the risk management phase. This process will tackle important issues such as the presence of THC, a controlled substance, and the need for stronger protections for vulnerable groups, including young people under 18. It’s a critical stage in the process that will shape the final regulatory framework, balancing safety with market accessibility.
Current Safety Recommendations
The FSA’s guidance on CBD consumption is clear: a maximum daily intake of 10 mg for healthy adults. This provisional Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) provides a benchmark for safety, but it’s vital for businesses to stay informed as further updates emerge during the risk management phase and public consultation.
Mandatory Labelling Requirements
The FSA plans to introduce mandatory labelling rules to help consumers make informed choices. These will include guidance on the recommended daily intake, clear warnings for vulnerable groups, and restrictions on marketing to individuals under 18. Businesses are advised to start reviewing their labelling practices now to stay ahead of these changes and ensure their products are compliant when the regulations are enforced.
Support for the Industry
The FSA recognises the importance of supporting businesses through this transition. It has committed to working with retailers, enforcement authorities, and other stakeholders to create a fair and transparent process. The Industry is strongly encouraged to participate in the public consultation when it opens in early 2025. This is a valuable opportunity to provide input and help shape the future of the CBD industry in the UK.
By taking proactive steps now, businesses can ensure they are well-positioned for success in a regulated market. More updates will be shared as the regulatory process unfolds.
To attend the Board Meeting in London on Wednesday 11th December in person online, in person, or submit a question:
https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/news/fsa-board-meeting-papers-published-for-december-2024
Agenda here: https://www.food.gov.uk/board-papers/fsa-board-meeting-december-2024-agenda-and-papers
