CBD in F&B? Global market proliferates but Europe’s regulatory roadblocks spur alternatives

20 Dec 2023 — Unclear legal frameworks in the EU and UK for cannabidiol (CBD) food and beverage products are stifling innovation and paving the way for alternatives that enjoy more favorable regulatory outlooks, industry insiders are highlighting. However, food safety authorities could yet provide the legal clarity required to stimulate NPD across CBD markets. 

In its last major update, the European Commission determined that CBD can be considered a novel food ingredient. But, while assessing applications, authorities said it had become clear there are knowledge gaps that need to be addressed before reaching a conclusion on the ingredient’s safety.