UK Moves CBD Novel Foods Towards Authorisation

Harper Cole 09/08/2026

UK Regulator Steps Up: Charting a New Course for CBD Novel Foods

The journey for novel food products in the United Kingdom is entering an exciting new phase, as the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has unveiled its proposed policy recommendations for the country’s first CBD novel food authorisations. This move signals a significant effort to bring clarity and structure to a rapidly evolving market, setting a formal regulatory framework for CBD ingestibles.

At the heart of these proposals is a commitment to consumer safety and transparency. The FSA has established a crucial guideline: a maximum acceptable daily intake of 10mg for adults. This benchmark, coupled with enhanced labelling requirements, aims to ensure that consumers have clear, actionable information when navigating the CBD landscape.

These recommendations specifically address three high-purity CBD applications: synthetic CBD, CBD isolate, and isolated CBD derived from hemp. These products have successfully undergone rigorous safety assessments and public consultation, providing a solid foundation for regulatory action.

Moving beyond safety limits, the new policy introduces clearer labelling. Products will now be required to explicitly state the maximum acceptable daily intake of 10mg, alongside important warnings aimed at under-18s and vulnerable groups. This shift is designed to empower consumers with the knowledge they need to make informed choices.

The regulatory ambition doesn’t stop at labelling. The FSA is simultaneously developing essential guidance covering broader aspects of the market, including enforcement strategies, the management of THC levels, and the critical distinction between foods, supplements, and medicines. This comprehensive approach ensures that the framework is robust and addresses the complex relationship between these different product categories.

Ultimately, these recommendations represent more than just new rules; they mark a significant step towards establishing a coherent and transparent market. By defining clear boundaries and providing a unified pathway, the FSA is giving manufacturers and retailers greater certainty regarding product formulation, compliance standards, and what CBD products can legally remain on the market.

This proactive approach positions the UK at the forefront of balancing innovation with regulation, promising a more structured and trustworthy environment for the CBD industry moving forward.