The UK CBD Industry in 2025: Progress, Challenges, and the FSA Consultation
The UK cannabidiol (CBD) market has experienced significant growth over the past decade, with products ranging from oils and capsules to edibles and beverages. However, the industry has faced regulatory uncertainties, particularly concerning the classification of CBD as a novel food. In August 2025, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) launched a public consultation on the authorisation of three CBD food products as novel foods in Great Britain. This marks a pivotal moment in the journey towards a fully regulated CBD market in the UK.
FSA Consultation: A Step Towards Regulatory Clarity
The FSA's consultation, which opened on 28 August 2025 and is set to close on 20 November 2025, focuses on three applications (RP07, RP350, and RP427) that have successfully passed initial safety assessments. If approved, these products would become the first legally authorised CBD foods in Great Britain, subject to meeting specific labelling requirements aimed at ensuring consumer safety.
The proposed labelling requirements include:
Age Restriction: Products should not be suitable for persons under the age of 18.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding or for those trying to conceive.
Medical Consultation: Individuals taking medications or who are immunosuppressed should consult a healthcare professional before use.
These measures aim to provide consumers with clear information about safe and appropriate use, helping them make informed choices about CBD products.
Industry Reactions and Stakeholder Engagement
The consultation has garnered attention from various stakeholders within the CBD industry. The Cannabis Trades Association (CTA) has welcomed the consultation but also highlighted several areas of concern. They have submitted a detailed response on behalf of their members, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that ensures consumer safety without stifling industry growth.
Francesco Mirizzi, Managing Director of the European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA), noted the importance of the consultation period, stating that it is crucial to raise points to ensure that the final authorisation, definition, and conditions for CBD novel foods are fit for purpose, viable for businesses, and safe and transparent for consumers.
Implications for the UK CBD Market
The outcome of the FSA consultation will have significant implications for the UK CBD market:
Market Access: Approval would grant authorised products legal status, enabling them to be marketed and sold across Great Britain.
Consumer Confidence: Clear labelling and safety assurances could enhance consumer trust in CBD products.
Industry Growth: Regulatory clarity may encourage investment and innovation within the sector.
However, challenges remain, including the need for ongoing dialogue between regulators and industry stakeholders to address concerns and ensure that the regulatory framework supports both consumer safety and industry development.
Conclusion
The FSA's consultation represents a critical step towards establishing a regulated CBD market in the UK. As the consultation period progresses, it is essential for stakeholders to engage actively, providing feedback that will shape the future of the industry. The outcome will not only influence the regulatory landscape but also determine the trajectory of the UK's CBD market in the years to come.
For more information on the consultation and to participate, visit the FSA's official consultation page.