Producers and suppliers of CBD lines, as well as importers, distributors, wholesalers and retailers, can now comment directly to the Food Standards Agency (FSA) on issues around the use of CBD extracts in food products and the future of any potential market for the products.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical compound found in cannabis and hemp known for its potential medical benefits, but importantly does not cause any intoxicating effects. It is legally sold and already available in products like oils, capsules and food supplements, although its effectiveness and any benefits are not yet conclusively proven.
This latest consultation, which is live until 20 November, provides the opportunity for stakeholders’ views to be submitted on the authorisation of what are termed ‘novel’ foods – basically ingredients not widely consumed in the UK or EU before 15 May, 1997 - also spanning items such as algae-derived products or foods native to other countries.
The FSA will consider stakeholder feedback to inform ministers in England and Wales, with the Minister of Health for Northern Ireland kept informed, before they make a determination. A parallel consultation is being published by Food Standards Scotland (FSS) in the late Summer to inform ministers’ determination there.
A new release from the FSA reads: “We are seeking feedback on the proposed terms of authorisation, our assessment of the potential impacts detailed in the consultation pack, and any further evidence you may have on additional impacts that we should consider.”
This consultation pack is available here, and provides all the background information, details and questions you will need to know in order to respond to the online survey.
The survey itself can then be completed here.
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