The limit was established by the European Union and applies to food products that contain Cannabidiol (CBD) – one of the primary non-psychoactive compounds found in cannabis. CBD is often used to treat a variety of medical conditions, such as chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy.
According to the EU’s Novel Food Regulation, any food containing CBD must get authorization from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) before it can be sold in the market. Samples of the product must then be tested to ensure they meet the new standards before they are cleared for sale.
These regulations that apply to cannabis-based foods are intended to ensure that they are safe for consumption while maintaining food quality standards. The new restrictions are expected to impact a variety of businesses that sell food items containing CBD, including coffee shops, restaurants, and online retailers.
But not everyone is happy about this new regulation. Advocates argue that these new rules may hinder the expansion of the CBD industry and deny people access to a natural remedy that has been proven to improve the quality of life for many individuals.
Others argue that these regulations are welcome as they provide clear guidelines for businesses, thereby ensuring the safety of consumers. Without these limitations, people might falsely assume that any CBD product is safe to consume and could be putting their health at risk.
In addition, some worry that as more people consume cannabis-based products, it could lead to an increase in recreational use. This could be particularly problematic in young people, cannabis use has been linked to cognitive impairments and other negative health outcomes.
It’s worth noting that the EU is not the only government that is starting to regulate cannabis-based products. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is also becoming increasingly vigilant about CBD, although its approach to regulation differs from that of the EU.
In conclusion, the limits set for cannabis-based foods are not necessarily a negative development for the CBD industry. While some businesses may struggle, these regulations are likely to provide consumers with greater protection by ensuring that these food items are safe to consume. They may also help curb recreational cannabis use and protect young people from its negative effects.
So, if you’re a consumer of cannabis-based foods, it’s important to be aware of these new rules to avoid buying products that do not meet the EU’s quality standards. And, if you’re a business owner, it’s essential to comply with these regulations to safeguard both your customers’ health and the longevity of your business.