A crucial milestone reached for cannabidiol (CBD) in the United Kingdom

May 23, 2024
Sébastien Bouley

On 30 April 2024, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Food Standards Scotland (FSS) concluded based on the opinion of the Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes (ACNFP) that novel foods, synthetic cannabidiol (CBD) and CBD isolate developed by Chanelle McCoy Ltd and Cannaray Ltd respectively were safe under the proposed conditions of use.

 

Subjects of the Novel Food Applications:

Two applications for novel food authorisation were submitted to the FSA and the FSS at the beginning of 2021. They concern, respectively:

– Synthetic cannabidiol (CBD) that is more than 98% pure, intended for use in adult dietary supplements,

– Cannabidiol isolate more than 98% pure, intended for use in dietary supplements, beverages and confectionery for adults.

CBD conditions of Use:

The FSA and FSS got advice from the joint subgroup of the ACNFP and the Committee on Toxicity (COT) on the toxicity of CBD and hemp-derived products. Based on the data provided in the application files and an assessment of the evidence available in the public domain, the ACNPF and TOC reviewed the body of toxicological evidence. The two authorities issued a joint statement on a provisional acceptable daily intake of pure CBD of more than 98% of 0.15 mg/kg body weight/day for a healthy adult of 70 kg, i.e. 10 mg/day in foods.

It is also recommended to pay attention to certain specific populations:

– Pregnant and breastfeeding women and people taking any prescription medication should avoid the consumption of CBD if possible.

– Consumers taking medication regularly should seek advice from a medical professional before consuming any type of CBD food product.

– Also, it is not recommended for children, prospective parents trying for a baby, and immunosuppressed persons, due to remaining data gaps and residual uncertainties concerning the safety of CBD for these groups of consumers.

The next step is the authorization of CBD (>98%) in food supplements. It is expected in early 2025.

To know, consult the FSA opinions and the position paper of ACNPF and COT.

 

Orchidali can support you for preparing and writing a Novel Food application for Europe.