NOVEL FOOD AND CBD

The term “novel food” refers to those foods that have not been significantly consumed in the European Union before May 15, 1997, the date on which the first European regulation on novel foods came into effect.

These foods may include novel ingredients, products derived from new technologies or production processes, as well as traditional foods from third countries that have not been previously consumed in the EU.

Novel foods must undergo a rigorous safety assessment before being approved for commercialization in the European market. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is the entity responsible for conducting this assessment, ensuring that these new foods do not pose risks to human health.

CBD AS NOVEL FOOD

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive compound present in the cannabis plant. It has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anxiolytic properties. However, the use of CBD as food or a dietary supplement in the European Union is regulated under novel food regulations.

On January 15, 2019, the European Commission included CBD in the novel foods catalog. This means that any food product containing CBD must undergo safety evaluation and authorization before being marketed in the European market. The inclusion of CBD in this catalog is because, before May 1997, there was no significant history of consuming this compound in the UE.

EVALUATION PROCESS

  1. Application: Manufacturers or distributors must submit a detailed application to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). This application should include information about the product’s composition, production process, and studies on its safety and health effects.
  2. Safety Evaluation: The EFSA reviews the provided information to ensure that CBD does not pose health risks. This evaluation may involve the assessment of toxicological and clinical studies.
  3. Approval: If the EFSA determines that the product is safe, it grants authorization for its commercialization. Without this authorization, the sale of food products containing CBD is not allowed in the EU.

CBD PRODUCTS

In the current market, there are several products containing cannabidiol (CBD) that are classified as novel foods in the European Union. Some products include:

  • CBD oils: These are used both as dietary supplements and as ingredients in cooking. They can be added to foods and beverages or consumed directly.
  • CBD beverages: There are drinks such as waters, sodas, infusions, and teas that contain CBD.
  • CBD snacks and edibles: Protein bars, cookies, chocolates, and other snacks.
  • CBD capsules and tablets: For precise and convenient dosing, they are consumed like any other dietary supplement.
  • CBD gummies: These are pleasantly flavored and easy to use, available in various doses and flavors.
  • CBD cosmetics and personal care products: Such as creams, balms, and skin oils, while not foods, they contain CBD and are classified as novel foods when intended to be ingested or applied in ways that can have systemic effects.

DATA

  • The global CBD market was valued at approximately $2.5 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach $77 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.2%.
  • In Europe, the consumption of CBD products is on the rise, with over 25 million regular consumers in 2023.
  • To date, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has received more than 50 safety assessment requests for food products containing CBD. Approximately 60% of these requests have been submitted by companies based in the United Kingdom and Germany.
  • CBD oils account for 40% of all CBD product sales in Europe, followed by capsules (20%) and gummies (15%).
  • CBD beverages have shown significant growth, with a 45% increase in annual sales since 2021.
  • The average price of a 10 ml CBD oil bottle varies between €30 and €60, depending on concentration and brand.
  • CBD gummies typically cost between €10 and €20 per 30-unit package.
  • It is estimated that over €200 million has been invested in CBD product research and development in Europe over the last five years.

 

*NOTE: Our information is based on scientific studies or outreach; if you are considering using cannabis, please consult with a specialized medical professional.