The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is giving the CBD industry a deadline of 31 March 2021 to submit valid novel food authorisation applications. After 31 March next year, only products which have submitted a valid application will be allowed to remain on the market. The authorisation process ensures novel foods meet legal standards, including on safety and content.
Local authorities enforcing the novel food legislation have been advised that businesses should be able to sell their existing CBD products during this time provided they are not incorrectly labelled, are not unsafe to eat and do not contain substances that fall under drugs legislation.
In addition, the FSA is also advising those who are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking any medication not to consume CBD products. They also recommend not consume more than 70mg of CBD a day.
The new U.K. food rule stipulates that after March 31, 2021, only products that have “submitted a valid application will be allowed to remain on the market.”
Until then, CBD products can stay on store shelves, as long as the products are:
- Correctly labeled.
- Safe to eat.
- Do not contain substances that fall under drugs legislation.
- Have less than 0.2% THC
The United Kingdom’s updated CBD guidance gives manufacturers and retailers clarity on how to sell CBD foods legally.
The FSA regulates food safety in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, which means the measure doesn’t apply to Scotland, where Food Standards Scotland is the responsible agency.
It also doesn’t apply to:
- Cosmetics
- Vapes
- Products making medicinal claims
