France adopts stricter regulations on CBD products
Vaping pen macro shot, vape devices wit e-liquid, electronic cigarette, selective focus
Products containing cannabidiol (CBD) have seen huge success in the past few months in France. This molecule, which is produced by cannabis plants, is not psychoactive like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Until recently, French legislation was quite flexible when it comes to these products, however in recent months the MILDECA* organised a research project to redefine market regulations for CBD-based products. E-liquids are targeted in particular.
On June 11th, the MILDECA published their report on CBD products. Cannabidiol will now be completely illegal on the French market. However, certain exceptions may apply. CBD products made from specific breeds of cannabis plants, as defined in article R. 5132-86 of the Public Health Code, will be allowed. Furthermore, the THC contents of the plant when harvested will have to be under 0.2%, and no products can be derived from the plant buds.
CBD e-liquids are in hot water
In the past few months, CBD products have been all the rage in vape shops throughout the country. Some media outlets even called CBD e-cigs “electronic joints”, a completely misleading title as CBD has no psychoactive effects.
The MILDECA also issued a statement to manufacturers who advertise the therapeutic benefits of CBD. Only ANSM-approved medications, that is to say certified by the French agency for pharmaceutical safety, can promote the medical benefits of the molecule. Any infraction to these rules can lead to hefty fines.
Furthermore, the commission highlighted the negative impact of CBD advertising. Most of the population cannot really tell the difference between cannabis and cannabidiol. With this in mind, inciting consumption of illegal substances is a crime.
*Mission Interministérielle de Lutte contre les Drogues Et les Conduites Addictives / Interdepartmental mission to combat drug abuse and addictive behaviour
