FSA reduces maximum dosage of cannabidiol (CBD)
The UK Food and Drug Administration has issued new guidelines recommending a reduced daily dose of cannabidiol (CBD), a cannabis extract commonly found in various products such as beverages and snacks.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has emphasized the precautionary nature of this advice, as prolonged usage of CBD can lead to liver and health issues. The recommended maximum daily dose for adults is now 10 milligrams, whereas the previous recommendation as of 2020 was 70 milligrams.
Health Risks
The FSA has warned that certain products available in stores and online exceed the 10 milligram CBD per serving limit. This amount is equivalent to approximately four to five drops of 5% CBD oil. Professor Robin May, the FSA’s chief scientific advisor, stated in an interview with the BBC, “The higher the lifetime consumption of CBD, the greater the likelihood of experiencing long-term adverse effects such as liver damage or thyroid problems. The risk level is dependent on the quantity ingested, similar to other potentially harmful substances like alcoholic beverages.”
Two independent committees have thoroughly reviewed scientific evidence, including data provided by CBD product manufacturers. While the FSA, which has been regulating the CBD market since 2019, believes that consuming 10 milligrams of CBD per day does not pose a “serious safety risk,” regular consumption exceeding this limit may have health implications.
CBD products can be found in various forms, including oils, drops, tinctures, sprays, gel capsules, as well as edibles like candies, bread, cookies, chocolate, and beverages.
CBD is Considered Safe
The Association for the Cannabinoid Industry is currently examining the evidence supporting the FSA’s recommendations. A spokesperson highlighted, “We want to emphasize to consumers that these guidelines affirm CBD’s safety and that the FSA’s advice covers the consumption of high daily doses over a lifetime.”
It is important to note that these recommendations are advisory in nature, and regulators are not calling for a removal of CBD products from the market. Food Standards Scotland has also provided the same advice. Emily Miles, the CEO of the FSA, stated, “We understand that this change in our advice will impact products currently on the market that exceed the 10 mg CBD per serving limit. We will work closely with the industry to minimize risk and ensure consumers are not exposed to potentially harmful levels of CBD.” The FSA maintains a list of CBD food products currently under review. Inclusion on this list does not guarantee authorization, and products not listed cannot be sold in England and Wales.
Source: BBC.com (EN)
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