As more consumers explore CBD products, one question frequently comes up: Is CBD flower legal in the UK?
In this article, we will explore the CBD market. We will discuss the different products available and the laws that apply to them. We will also see how CBD is quickly becoming a key part of the wellness industry.
CBD Flower UK Laws
CBD is legal in the UK if it follows specific laws and guidelines from the government. Here are a few important rules to know.
- ''CBD products in the UK must contain no more than 1 mg of THC per finished product, regardless of the product's size or volume. THC is a controlled substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, and any CBD product exceeding this limit is considered illegal.''
- - UK Government - Misuse of Drugs Act 1971
- ''CBD products must comply with general food safety regulations, including clear labeling that does not make any unauthorized health claims. Products must not be labeled as medicinal unless they have been licensed as a medicine by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).''
- - MHRA - CBD and Medicinal Products
These regulations ensure that CBD products sold in the UK are produced and marketed within strict legal guidelines, prioritizing consumer safety and compliance.
What is CBD?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in the cannabis plant, it does not cause a ''high'' or intoxicating effect, contributing to the legality of CBD Flower in the UK. It is popular for its potential health benefits, it may reduce anxiety, alleviate pain, and improve sleep. It may help maintain a balance in various bodily functions like mood, immune response, and pain. It's available in various forms, like CBD Flower, gummies, vapes and oils, making it accessible for different needs.
Types of CBD Products
CBD Flower
CBD Flower referes to the raw dried buds of the hemp plant that are rich in CBD but contain low levels of THC (less than 0.2% to be exact). It can be smoked or vaporized, most commonly it is rolled into a ''CBD Joint''. It also acts quickly, with effects felt almost immediately after smoking.
CBD Gummies
CBD Gummies are edible sweets that contain CBD oil. They come in various flavours, shapes, sizes and concentrations. Their popularity comes from them being the most discreet, convenient, and easy to consume. Although it takes longer for them to take effect, they offer a steady release of CBD over time.
CBD Oil
CBD Oil is a concentrated form of CBD, it is also very popular due to its quick absorption, and the fact that it can be added to food and drinks. Most commonly it is take sublingually (under the tongue). Its ease of use allows consumers to add it to their daily routine in multiple ways.
CBD Vape
CBD Vape products include e-liquids or vape oils designed for a vape pen or vaporizer. It allows for quick absorption into the bloodstream, this is a product which is very popular due to its flavours being able to get mixed and customized.
The growing market of CBD in the UK
Last but not least, the CBD Market in the UK. CBD has had incresed popularity over the years, with a market of over 300 million Pounds in 2019, to an expected market of over 800 million Pounds in 2024, the UK is also the largest CBD Market in Europe.
In 2023, almost a third of survey correspondents in the UK reported having used CBD before. There are more than 3500 CBD products on the market in the UK.
The Big Question: Is CBD Flower Legal in the UK?
In the UK, while CBD is legal provided it contains no more than 0.2% THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis. This limit ensures that the CBD products do not produce any psychoactive effects, maintaining their legality and safety for consumer use.
BUT, under the Misuse of Drugs Act, however, all forms of the cannabis flower (regardless of their THC content) are classified as a controlled substance and are therefore, illegal.
Though the THC content of the flower is below 0.2% (within the legal threshold), the flower itself sits in a so-called ''grey area''.
A case went to the Court of Appeal, which ruled in favour of the CBD company.
Judges said they did not consider flower with a THC content below 0.2% a "narcotic drug" and so ruled that the company could not have broken the law under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
Many suppliers are calling on the government to update the law around CBD products, so that legality is based on psychoactive substances - rather than the material itself.
Conclusion
The CBD market is an ever increasing market in the UK, new laws come into place, but none have made cbd flower illegal. Making informed decisions through research and online shopping is important. At FortuneFlavours, you can find everything, from CBD Flowers to CBD Gummies, we have everything you would need.
