CBD Industry in the UK: Legal Limbo and Growing Demand

The CBD industry in the UK is booming, with an estimated 6.5 million people using CBD products. However, those selling CBD products are facing legal challenges due to the current laws surrounding the substance.

CBD, or Cannabidiol, is a chemical found in marijuana that does not contain THC, the psychoactive substance in cannabis. Despite its non-psychoactive properties, CBD products are still subject to strict regulations under the Misuse of Drugs Act in the UK.

One particular issue causing confusion is the legality of CBD flower, which can be smoked, vaped, or made into tea. While CBD flower contains little to no THC, it is still classified as a controlled substance under UK law.

The legal grey area surrounding CBD flower was highlighted in a recent court case where a CBD company was prosecuted for importing low-THC flower. The Court of Appeal ruled in favor of the company, stating that flower with a THC content below 0.2% is not considered a narcotic drug.

Many CBD suppliers are calling on the government to update the laws surrounding CBD products to focus on psychoactive substances rather than the material itself. The Home Office has acknowledged the need for greater clarity and plans to introduce defined limits on the controlled drug content of consumer CBD products.

Despite this, the UK government has stated that the flowers of the cannabis plant will remain controlled under UK legislation, regardless of THC content. This has left the CBD industry and its consumers in a state of uncertainty, with many hoping for a change in the law to provide more clarity and consistency.