CBD products in focus: Legal situation and research put to the test!

Imagine strolling through the shelves of a health food store or scrolling through an online shop and everywhere you look you see colorful packaging with the abbreviation CBD. Whether as a drop for the night, a cream for the skin or even as an additive in food – the variety of products containing cannabidiol is impressive. This non-psychoactive active ingredient from the cannabis plant has quickly become established in a wide variety of forms, although many questions remain unanswered about its effects and legal status. A look at the range of applications shows how broad the target groups and promises associated with CBD are.

The best-known variants include CBD oils, which are often sold in small bottles with a pipette. They are taken sublingually, i.e. dripped under the tongue, and are intended to help reduce stress or promote sleep. Many users swear by a calming effect, even if scientific evidence for this is often still lacking. In addition to the oils, there are capsules that allow for more precise dosing and are often preferred by people who don't like the taste of the oil. Both forms are mostly advertised as dietary supplements, although they are not approved as such in the EU and require approval as a novel food, among others NDR reported.

Another area in which CBD is strongly represented is cosmetic products. Creams, lotions and balms containing cannabidiol are praised for their potential anti-inflammatory properties and are said to help with skin problems such as acne or eczema. Manufacturers often advertise natural ingredients, but even in this segment there is a lack of sound scientific data on effectiveness. What is interesting is that such products can be sold as hygiene products without having to provide proof of their effectiveness - a circumstance that further illustrates the legal gray area of ​​CBD.

In addition, CBD has crept into the food sector, although this is particularly sensitive in Europe. Gummy bears, chocolates or drinks containing cannabidiol can be found on the market in some countries, although strictly speaking they require approval as a novel food. Many manufacturers try to circumvent such requirements by re-declaring their products, which only increases the uncertainty for consumers. In contrast, there are classic hemp products such as hemp seeds or hemp oil, which have no or only minimal CBD content and therefore do not fall under these strict regulations. They are rich in nutrients such as unsaturated fatty acids and vitamins and are used in baking or as an ingredient in smoothies.

From a medical point of view, there are also specific uses of CBD, although these must be clearly differentiated from over-the-counter products. An approved medicine such as Epidiolex, which has been available in Europe since 2019 for certain forms of epilepsy, shows proven success in reducing seizures. CBD is also used as a component of Nabiximols, a spray used to treat cramps in multiple sclerosis. These medical products are subject to strict controls and are only available through pharmacies, in contrast to the often unstandardized over-the-counter variants, as also stated in an article by Barmer is highlighted.

In addition to the categories mentioned, there are other niches in which CBD appears, for example in the form of vaporizers or e-liquids for inhalation. However, this method carries risks as inhaling CBD oil can potentially cause serious lung damage. This also shows how important it is to have well-founded information about the different forms of application and their possible dangers. While some users view CBD as a panacea for pain, anxiety or insomnia, the exact mechanism by which the substance works remains largely unknown. Animal experiments indicate possible effects in palliative medicine, but whether these results can be transferred to humans is questionable.

The immense variety of CBD products reflects not only the creativity of manufacturers, but also the different needs of consumers. From the search for relaxation to the hope of pain relief to skin care - the possible uses seem almost endless. But behind this colorful world of products lurk questions about quality, safety and, last but not least, legal classification, which continue to shape the market.

Anyone who deals with CBD products will quickly come across a legal labyrinth that offers different paths and hurdles depending on the country and region. The legal requirements for cannabidiol are far from uniform, and while there is some flexibility in some areas, other states draw clear red lines. A journey through the regulations in various European countries shows how different the approaches are and what challenges this poses for manufacturers and consumers.

In the European Union, the Novel Food Regulation forms the central framework for many CBD products, especially when they are marketed as food or dietary supplements. This regulation requires comprehensive safety testing and approval before such products can be placed on the market. Since 2019, CBD has been classified as a novel food in the EU, which means that manufacturers must submit complex applications in order to legally distribute their products. However, the implementation of these requirements varies considerably between member states. In some countries, such as Germany, the rules are interpreted strictly and many over-the-counter CBD products operate in a legal gray area as they are often offered without appropriate authorization.

In recent years, Germany itself has introduced additional specific regulations that go beyond the EU framework, particularly with regard to road traffic. Since August 2024, a THC limit of 3.5 ng/ml in the blood serum has been in effect to ensure the ability to drive. This measure, which was passed by the German Bundestag, shows an attempt to regulate the handling of cannabis and its components such as CBD more clearly. Further details about these requirements can be found on the website Federal Ministry of Health. What is interesting is that medical cannabis or CBD products only require a medical opinion if there are signs of abuse, which creates some flexibility for patients but at the same time tightens control over recreational use.

A look across the border into Switzerland reveals a different approach. A strict distinction is made here between cannabis products with a THC content of over 1%, which are subject to the Narcotics Act, and those with less than 1%, which include many CBD products. The latter can be sold legally under certain conditions, but depending on the intended use they fall under other laws, for example in the areas of food or cosmetics. Since 2013, possession of small amounts of cannabis (up to 10 g) has been punished with a fine, and consumption in public spaces remains punishable. At the same time, Switzerland is experimenting with pilot projects for the controlled distribution of cannabis in order to test possible regulatory models. The platform provides further information on these legal bases Looking for Switzerland.

In France, on the other hand, there is a particularly restrictive attitude. Although CBD products with a THC content of less than 0.3% are generally permitted, the government has tried several times in recent years to ban the sale of certain forms such as CBD flowers, on the grounds that they are difficult to distinguish from THC-containing cannabis. Court decisions have partially lifted such bans, but uncertainty remains. Manufacturers and retailers are faced with the challenge of complying with constantly changing regulations, while consumers often do not know whether they are acting legally.

The situation is completely different in the Netherlands, where a comparatively liberal attitude prevails. CBD products are widely available and are tolerated in many cases as long as they meet the low THC limit. Nevertheless, suppliers here also have to comply with the EU's novel food regulations, which leads to tensions because many products are in circulation without the appropriate approval. This discrepancy between national practice and supra-regional requirements illustrates how difficult harmonization is within Europe.

Another example is Italy, where CBD products have gained popularity in recent years but are also under strict scrutiny. While medical cannabis has been legal since 2013, recreational use remains prohibited and CBD products are in a legal twilight zone. EU regulations are interpreted strictly, particularly in the food sector, and many products have already been withdrawn from the market because they could not provide the necessary approvals.

The differences in the legal treatment of CBD across Europe raise questions that reach far beyond national borders. How can manufacturers operate in such a fragmented market and what impact does this have on product safety and quality? The answers to this depend not only on the respective laws, but also on the willingness to create more uniform standards at EU level.

If we navigate through the bureaucratic hurdles that characterize the market for CBD products in the European Union, one term is particularly important: Novel Food. This category, introduced by a specific EU regulation, decides whether and how products containing cannabidiol are allowed to find their way to consumers. But what exactly is behind this concept and why does it represent such a big challenge for the CBD industry? A deeper insight into the legal mechanisms reveals how complex and consequential this classification is.

Basically, the term “novel food” refers to foods or ingredients that were not used to any significant extent for human consumption in the EU before May 15, 1997. According to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283, such products must undergo strict safety testing and be officially approved before being placed on the market. The aim of this regulation is to protect consumers from potential risks that could be associated with new or little-researched substances. For companies, this means a complex process that requires extensive scientific data and evidence before their products receive the green light.

In the context of CBD, this regulation plays a central role because cannabidiol has been classified as a novel food. The reason: There is insufficient evidence that CBD was consumed to any relevant extent in the EU before the 1997 deadline. Consequently, all products containing CBD that are to be marketed as food or dietary supplements must go through an approval process. However, to date - as of the current information - no final approval has been granted for CBD in this category, among other things Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) explained. This means that many products on the market remain in a legal gray area.

However, not all hemp products fall under this strict regulation. Hemp seeds and products derived from them, such as hemp oil or watery tea infusions made from hemp leaves (without flowers or fruit stalks) are not considered novel because their use in the EU was documented before 1997. However, there are restrictions: Only varieties of Cannabis sativa L. that are listed in the EU's Common Catalog of Varieties may be used for such products. However, as soon as cannabinoids such as CBD are specifically enriched or extracted, the novel food classification comes into play again, especially with special extraction methods that increase the active ingredient content.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) plays a key role in assessing novel food applications. However, in the case of CBD, EFSA has identified significant data gaps in risk assessment. To date, the applications submitted have not been able to prove beyond doubt that consuming CBD in the intended quantities is safe. There are particular concerns about possible long-term health effects, such as liver function or interactions with other substances. These uncertainties have led to the temporary suspension of the processing of CBD approval applications in June 2022, further complicating the market situation.

For manufacturers, novel food status represents an enormous hurdle, both financially and in terms of time. Preparing the necessary scientific studies and submitting an application is costly and can take years. In addition, national regulations in member states may impose additional restrictions. In Germany, for example, regulations of the Consumer Cannabis Act apply, which further regulate the trade in CBD products, especially if they contain traces of Δ9-THC, which could impair marketability.

Another aspect that exacerbates the situation is the distinction between different product categories. While CBD products that are approved as medicines are subject to a separate procedure and can be available in pharmacies, the majority of over-the-counter items fall under the Novel Food Regulation if they are intended for consumption. This strict separation often leads to misunderstandings among consumers, who do not always recognize whether a product is being marketed legally or not.

The importance of novel food status for CBD products in the EU goes far beyond a mere bureaucratic hurdle. It significantly influences which products reach the market, how safe they are for consumers and whether companies are even able to operate in this area. The ongoing uncertainty surrounding approval also raises the question of how the market will develop in the coming years and whether it will be possible to close the existing data gaps.

If we delve into the world of the CBD market, it quickly becomes clear that there is more shadow than light. Between legal gray areas, economic risks and unclear future prospects, manufacturers and consumers are navigating uncertain territory. The dynamics of this market, which has grown rapidly in recent years, is influenced by a variety of factors that bring with them both regulatory and economic uncertainties. A closer look reveals why this sector is on shaky ground despite its popularity.

A central point that characterizes the CBD market in Europe is the ongoing lack of clarity regarding the legal marketability of many products. Although a ruling by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) in November 2020 made it clear that CBD is not considered a narcotic substance within the meaning of the WHO Single Convention of 1961 as long as it is obtained from legal hemp with less than 0.3% THC, the situation remains complicated. Classification as a novel food in accordance with EU Regulation No. 2015/2283 requires a complex approval process, which no CBD product has ever fully undergone. Since June 2022, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has even paused processing applications due to a lack of long-term safety data, according to an overview by GreenGate Legal is described in detail. Over 100 applications are currently waiting to be processed, and until a final decision is made, many companies are operating in a legal gray area.

This regulatory uncertainty has a direct impact on market participants. Many regulatory authorities, for example in Düsseldorf in 2023, have banned the sale of foods containing CBD by general decree, which further increases the pressure on manufacturers and retailers. Companies bear the full risk if they market products without authorization and face the challenge of checking for themselves whether their products fall under the novel food category. This often leads to products having to be withdrawn from the market or the threat of high fines, which endangers the economic stability of many small and medium-sized businesses.

On the other hand, consumers are faced with a flood of products whose quality and legality are often difficult to assess. Without clear approvals and uniform standards, there is a risk that CBD oils, capsules or food additives do not contain the advertised active ingredient content or even contain traces of THC above the permitted limits. Such irregularities can not only pose health risks, but can also have legal consequences for users, for example in drug checks in traffic. The lack of transparency fuels mistrust and makes it difficult to distinguish reputable providers from questionable ones.

From an economic point of view, the CBD market faces another dilemma: high investment costs with uncertain returns. The development and submission of a novel food application requires significant financial resources for scientific studies and legal advice, with no guarantee of a positive outcome. For many start-ups and smaller companies, this is a difficult effort to manage, while larger players with more capital are better positioned, but also suffer from the uncertainty of how long it will take for applications to be processed. This financial burden is exacerbated by the fragmented legal situation in EU member states, as national authorities can apply different interpretations and additional requirements.

Added to this is the competitive pressure from alternative markets and products. While the legal CBD market struggles with regulatory hurdles, black markets that are not subject to any controls and often offer cheaper alternatives are flourishing in some regions. At the same time, other wellness and health products are entering the market that make similar promises to CBD, but are subject to less strict regulations. This competitive environment forces CBD manufacturers to constantly adapt their marketing strategies, often at the expense of transparency and quality, in order to remain competitive.

Another aspect that creates uncertainty is public perception and the associated demand. While CBD has been hyped as a trendy product in recent years, opinions vary about its actual effectiveness and safety. A lack of long-term scientific data and conflicting studies contribute to consumers being confused about whether they should invest their money in a product whose benefits are not clearly proven. This skepticism could dampen demand in the long term, especially if stricter regulations further restrict the market.

The uncertainties in the CBD market are a complex web of legal, economic and social factors that pose challenges for both providers and consumers. How this dynamic develops in the coming years depends largely on whether and when a clear regulatory framework is created and whether the industry is able to build trust through quality and transparency.

If we delve into the world of science, a window opens into the potential health benefits of cannabidiol, or CBD, that inspire both hope and skepticism. While the shelves are overflowing with products that promise relaxation, pain relief or better sleep, the question arises as to what the research actually says. A look through the studies to date reveals a field that is characterized by promising approaches, but also by significant gaps that make a clear assessment difficult.

The scientific study of CBD gained momentum in the 1980s with the discovery of the endogenous cannabinoid receptor system, a network in the human body that plays a key role in regulating pain, mood and other functions. Since then, numerous controlled studies have attempted to decipher the effects of CBD, one of approximately 113 cannabinoids in the hemp plant. There are areas, particularly in the medical field, where the evidence is convincing. In 2019, the CBD-based drug Epidiolex was approved in Europe for the treatment of certain forms of epilepsy, such as Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, after studies demonstrated a significant reduction in seizure frequency.

Aside from this specific application, there are other promising indications. Research suggests that CBD can positively influence subjective feelings of stress by interacting with cortisol secretion. Initial results also show that CBD could reduce anxiety levels and improve sleep quality for anxiety and depression. An overview CBD Vital highlights that such effects have been observed in smaller clinical studies and animal models, for example through increased sleep duration in test subjects. However, the transferability of these results to larger populations remains questionable due to the lack of comprehensive long-term studies.

Another area that is attracting attention is pain processing. CBD could modulate the perception of pain signals in the endocannabinoid system, making it a potential candidate for the treatment of chronic pain. Similar hopes exist for skin conditions, where cannabinoids could show anti-inflammatory properties that would be helpful in conditions such as acne or eczema. But here too, the data to date often comes from limited studies or animal experiments, and the exact mode of action remains unclear.

There are also interesting developments in the area of ​​addiction treatment. A recently published study by the Central Institute for Mental Health (ZI) in Mannheim, documented on ZI Mannheim, shows that CBD can reduce alcohol cravings in people suffering from alcoholism. In the double-blind, randomized ICONIC study with 28 participants, it was found that the group that received 800 mg of CBD reported lower alcohol cravings, accompanied by reduced activity in the nucleus accumbens, a brain region relevant to reward and addiction. Preclinical research supports this by showing that CBD significantly reduces alcohol consumption in laboratory animals. Such results raise hope that CBD could play a role as a supportive therapy in addiction treatment.

Other potential uses range from weight management, where CBD could help with metabolic syndrome, to assisting in smoking cessation, as suggested by small studies in which cigarette consumption was reduced by CBD. However, despite these promising approaches, there are significant limitations in the research. Many studies use mixed preparations that contain other cannabinoids in addition to CBD, which clouds the validity of pure CBD products. In addition, sample sizes are often small and long-term effects – both in terms of effectiveness and safety – remain largely unexplored.

Another critical point is the discrepancy between the advertised effects and the actual evidence. While manufacturers often market CBD as a panacea for a variety of ailments, experts urge caution. The German Medical Association and other institutions emphasize that cannabinoids can be useful for certain medical indications, but should not replace medically prescribed therapies. Consultation with a specialist is strongly recommended to rule out risks and interactions with other medications.

Research into CBD is still in its early stages, but the potential is clear. At the same time, the market shows a multitude of inferior products whose effectiveness is questionable, highlighting the need for evidence-based research. What role CBD will play in medicine and everyday life in the future depends on how quickly and comprehensively science can close these gaps.

If we look behind the shiny packaging of CBD products, it becomes clear that quality and safety are not just buzzwords, but rather decisive factors that determine the welfare or woe of consumers. In a market characterized by rapid growth and regulatory uncertainty, manufacturers and retailers are faced with the challenge of meeting strict standards, while consumers are often left in the dark when it comes to the reliability of the goods on offer. A closer look at the quality and safety requirements reveals how closely these are linked to the protection of end users.

A central aspect of quality assurance is compliance with legal requirements, particularly with regard to THC content. In Germany, since the introduction of the new cannabis law in April 2024, CBD products may contain a maximum of 0.3% THC in order to exclude psychoactive effects and ensure legality. This limit, like on JustBob explains, serves consumer protection and distinguishes legal CBD products from illegal cannabis products. For manufacturers, this means that they not only have to carefully select the raw materials - often industrial hemp with a low THC content - but also have to ensure that their products comply with these requirements through regular laboratory analyzes. Deviations can not only have legal consequences, but also pose health risks for consumers, for example due to unexpected intoxicating effects.

Beyond THC content, production standards play a crucial role. Certificates such as Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) or ISO standards are indicators of high quality as they guarantee hygienic conditions and strict controls during manufacturing. Such standards as they are also mentioned in a post Flower power are particularly relevant in smart shops, which often offer natural remedies and herbs in addition to CBD products. Regular product testing and independent laboratory analyzes are essential to ensure that no harmful substances such as pesticides, heavy metals or microbiological contaminants are contained in the products. For consumers, this offers a certain level of security that what they are buying is not only legal but also safe.

Another important point is transparent labeling. Legal requirements such as the Food Ordinance (LMV) and the Food Supplements Act (NemV) in Germany require clear information on ingredients, dosages and origin. This transparency allows consumers to make informed decisions and minimize potential risks, such as those caused by allergens or drug interactions. Unfortunately, this is not always the case in the CBD market, as many products are marketed without sufficient information or even with misleading health claims. For consumers, this means an increased risk of falling for substandard or unsafe products, especially when purchasing online where origin is difficult to trace.

Quality assurance also has a direct impact on application security. Expert advice, such as that offered in reputable smart shops or pharmacies, can help to find the right dosage and method of application tailored to individual needs. Without such support, there is a risk of overdose, which can cause side effects such as fatigue, stomach upset or, in rare cases, liver strain. This is particularly a problem with over-the-counter products, which are often not standardized, as the actual CBD content can differ from the information on the packaging. Consumers therefore depend on reliable information and reputable providers in order to avoid health risks.

Quality and safety requirements also influence the market itself. Manufacturers that adhere to strict standards often face higher production costs, which affects prices and makes it difficult to compete with cheaper, less controlled products. At the same time, stricter regulations, such as those sought by the new cannabis law, could limit the availability of CBD products, which in turn affects consumer access. Imported products must also come from industrial hemp and meet the THC limit, which could further limit choice but at the same time increase protection against unsafe goods.

The safety of CBD products is closely linked to building trust. Customer reviews, digital security certificates and recommendations can help identify reliable providers, but ultimately the responsibility remains with consumers to critically examine the products. How the balance between strict requirements and market access will develop in the future depends on the further development of the legal framework and the industry's willingness to prioritize quality over quantity.

If we look into the future of the CBD market, a picture emerges that is full of potential, but also full of uncertainties. The development of this sector, which has already made enormous leaps in recent years, is shaped by global trends, regional differences and changing legal frameworks. As demand for cannabidiol products continues to rise, both manufacturers and regulators are faced with the task of finding a path that balances innovation and consumer protection. An outlook on the coming years reveals exciting forecasts and possible turning points.

The global cannabis market, to which CBD products contribute a significant part, is showing impressive growth figures. According to an analysis by Fortune Business Insights The market size was USD 43.72 billion in 2022 and is expected to increase to USD 444.34 billion by 2030, corresponding to a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 34.03%. North America currently dominates with a market share of over 80% in 2022, driven by the continued legalization of medical and recreational cannabis in the US and Canada. Strong growth is also expected in Europe, with the continent representing the second largest market, led by countries such as Germany, which is leading the way with liberal laws and the ability to set up private “cannabis clubs”.

A driving factor for this growth is the increasing acceptance of cannabis and its derivatives worldwide. In North America, over 70% of Americans live in states where marijuana is legal, and recreational cannabis sales in Canada reached over $3 billion in 2023. These developments, as well as in a report by Research nests highlighted, suggest that legalization not only boosts consumption but also promotes new business models and outlets. In Europe, the growing medical use of CBD, coupled with a gradual relaxation of regulations, could have similar effects, although cultural differences - such as frequent mixed use with tobacco - create regional peculiarities.

A key trend that will shape the CBD market is product diversification. In addition to classic oils and capsules, concentrates, edible products and cosmetics are becoming increasingly popular. These innovations reflect the demand for versatile applications, whether for medical purposes or as part of a wellness lifestyle. At the same time, large players such as Aurora Cannabis and Canopy Growth Corporation are driving market development through partnerships and expansions, which could make it difficult for smaller companies to compete. The increasing demand for CBD-dominant products that contain minimal levels of THC also shows that consumers are increasingly looking for non-psychoactive alternatives.

Changes are also coming at the regulatory level. In Europe, the Novel Food Regulation remains a key hurdle, but there are indications that the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) could resume its assessment of CBD applications in the coming years, provided sufficient long-term safety data is provided. Countries like Germany and Italy that already allow medical uses could further relax their regulations, while other regions, particularly in the Middle East and parts of Asia, are likely to maintain strict bans. Global examples such as decriminalization in Thailand in 2022 or the Cannabis Regulation Act in New Mexico in 2021 suggest that gradual liberalization is possible in many parts of the world, which could boost international trade in CBD products.

Nevertheless, challenges remain. Strict regulations and concerns about possible side effects, such as cognitive impairment, could slow growth in some markets. In addition, the public debate about THC limits and the long-term health effects of CBD could lead to further adjustments to the legislation. In Europe, harmonization of regulations between member states will play a key role in creating a unified market and reducing uncertainty for manufacturers.

Another aspect that will influence market development is the growing importance of sustainability and transparency. Consumers are increasingly attaching importance to the origin of products, the quality of raw materials and environmentally friendly production methods. Companies that meet these requirements could gain a competitive advantage, while the industry as a whole could come under pressure to adopt stricter standards. How these trends mesh with legal developments will largely determine whether CBD can consolidate its place as a mainstream product.

Let's imagine a consumer standing in front of a shelf of CBD products in a store, intrigued by the promises of relaxation and well-being, yet confused by the contradictory information on the labels. In a market characterized by hype and uncertainty, education becomes the essential bridge between curiosity and informed decision-making. The importance of informing consumers about the properties, risks and legal status of cannabidiol products can hardly be overestimated, as this is the only way they can use these products safely and responsibly.

A fundamental problem is widespread ignorance about the legal situation of CBD in Europe. Many consumers are not aware that foods and dietary supplements containing CBD are classified as novel foods in the EU and require strict approval, which has not yet been granted. The Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety currently considers the sale of such products to be illegal, as stated on the website Consumer Service Bavaria explained. In contrast, hemp products such as seeds or leaves for teas are freely available for sale as long as they do not exceed the maximum THC content of 0.2% in the EU. This distinction is often difficult for laypeople to understand, which increases the risk of unknowingly purchasing illegal products.

The legal gray area not only leads to misunderstandings, but also to potential dangers. Without proper information, consumers could buy products that contain too high a THC content, which can lead to health problems or legal consequences, for example in traffic drug checks. The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has found elevated THC levels in some hemp products, and excessive consumption can be problematic, particularly in children or in combination with medication and alcohol. Clear communication about such risks is essential to protect consumers from rash decisions.

Another aspect of education concerns the actual effects and limitations of CBD. While many products are advertised with promises of health benefits such as stress reduction or pain relief, such effects are often not sufficiently scientifically proven. Consumers must understand that CBD is not a panacea and that in certain uses - such as as a replacement for medically prescribed therapies - it poses risks, particularly through possible interactions with other substances. Public campaigns and independent sources of information could play an important role in curbing excessive expectations and promoting realistic assessments.

The quality and origin of the products are also a central issue that requires clarification. Many consumers do not realize that the market is flooded with substandard or poorly controlled CBD products that do not contain the advertised active ingredients or may contain contaminants. Education about the importance of laboratory analyses, transparent labeling and reputable providers – such as pharmacies or specialized shops – can help to build trust and increase safety. Suggestions such as setting up cannabis stores in pharmacies, as mentioned in an article Pharmacy Adhoc could also provide a platform for qualified advice to inform consumers directly at the point of sale.

Another important point is the target group orientation of the education. Particular caution is required for vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women or people with previous illnesses for whom the consumption of CBD products poses additional risks. Likewise, consumers need to be educated about the differences between medical and recreational use in order to understand a clear distinction between approved drugs and over-the-counter products. Such information could be disseminated through targeted campaigns, training or digital platforms to achieve broad reach.

Education about CBD products and their legal status is not only a matter of consumer protection, but also a means of increasing trust in the market. As long as the legal situation remains unclear and the scientific evidence is incomplete, the responsibility remains with consumers to inform themselves - a task that must be made easier by accessible and understandable resources. How these efforts affect the perception and use of CBD depends on whether authorities, manufacturers and independent organizations work together on transparent communication.

If we mentally travel around the globe, it becomes clear that the world of CBD products is a patchwork of different regulations and market conditions. From liberal approaches in North America to strict bans in parts of Asia, the legal and economic landscape for cannabidiol varies enormously. A comparison of regulation and the market in different countries shows how much cultural, political and historical factors influence the acceptance and availability of these products.

In Europe, the EU forms a central, albeit inconsistent, basis for the regulation of CBD. The classification as a novel food according to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283 requires strict approval for foods containing CBD, which has not yet taken place, as in an overview by Taylor Wessing is described. In Germany, CBD products are marketable if the THC content is below 0.2% and they serve commercial or scientific purposes, but selling them as food remains problematic. Countries like Austria allow a slightly higher THC content of 0.3%, while France is more restrictive and has at times tried to ban certain forms such as CBD flowers. The market in Europe is therefore fragmented, with growing popularity of products such as oils and cosmetics, but ongoing uncertainty for manufacturers and consumers.

A completely different picture emerges in North America, where the USA and Canada are pioneers in liberalization. In the United States, the legal situation varies significantly by state, but in many regions CBD oil is legal as long as the THC content remains below 0.3%. The market is booming, driven by the legalization of medical and recreational cannabis, and includes a wide range of products from edibles to cosmetics. Canada goes a step further and allows CBD products containing up to 0.3% THC to be sold without a prescription, which has created a thriving market with thousands of outlets. This liberal attitude has made North America the largest cannabis market in the world, with enormous economic potential.

A look at Asia reveals a much more restrictive stance, with a few exceptions. In countries like Japan or South Korea, CBD products are strictly regulated or completely banned because they are often equated with psychoactive substances. However, Thailand stands out as it decriminalized the cultivation and use of all parts of the cannabis plant in 2022, allowing for an emerging market for CBD products. Nevertheless, the legal situation in many Asian countries remains unclear, and travelers must, as in a guide from CBD Vital Recommended to do thorough research beforehand to avoid problems during import. The market in Asia is therefore still underdeveloped, with limited availability and high uncertainty.

There is a mixed picture in South America, with ongoing developments in some countries. Uruguay, which became the first country in the world to legalize recreational cannabis in 2013, has a growing market for CBD products, particularly in the medical sector. Countries such as Colombia and Argentina also allow medical uses, but the recreational market remains severely limited. Regulation is often unclear and the black market plays a significant role, affecting the quality and safety of products. Still, there is potential for growth as public acceptance slowly increases.

In the Middle East and Africa, the hurdles for CBD products are mostly insurmountable. In most countries in the region, cannabis and its derivatives, including CBD, are strictly prohibited, often due to cultural and religious norms. Even in countries like Israel, where medical cannabis is permitted, the market for CBD products remains highly restricted and subject to strict controls. The market here is almost non-existent and consumers risk high fines if they violate the laws.

Australia and New Zealand offer another contrast, with a cautious opening to CBD. In Australia, CBD has been available as a prescription medicine since 2021, and there is a small but growing market for medical products. However, recreational use remains illegal and regulation is strict. New Zealand has also approved medical uses, but the market is still in its infancy. Both countries show that gradual liberalization is possible, but consumer access remains limited.

The global comparison of regulation and the market for CBD products shows how much the framework conditions depend on local conditions. While some regions such as North America benefit from dynamic market development, others face almost insurmountable legal barriers. These differences not only influence the availability of products, but also the opportunities for international trade and innovation in the industry.

Let's take a moment to look at the complex world of CBD products from a high-level perspective and pull together the threads that run through legal, scientific and market aspects. The journey through the landscape of cannabidiol has shown that this non-psychoactive compound from the hemp plant holds both enormous potential and significant challenges. From the diverse findings, clear recommendations can be derived for consumers, manufacturers and legislators in order to promote responsible use of CBD and minimize the uncertainties in this dynamic market.

A central point that runs through all considerations is the legal gray area in which CBD products find themselves in Europe and beyond. Classification as a novel food in the EU requires strict approval for foods and dietary supplements, which has not yet taken place, which puts many products in a legally questionable position. Regulations vary widely around the world - from liberal approaches in North America, where THC limits of 0.3% open the market in the US and Canada, to strict bans in parts of Asia and the Middle East. This lack of uniformity creates uncertainty for everyone involved and underlines the need for clear, harmonized guidelines.

On a scientific level, research shows promising approaches, particularly in the treatment of forms of epilepsy such as Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, where CBD-based medications such as Epidiolex are approved. Studies also suggest potential benefits for stress, anxiety, sleep disorders and pain, according to a review CBD Vital is highlighted. However, the evidence remains limited because long-term studies are lacking and many studies use mixed preparations, which limits the significance of pure CBD. This highlights that advertised health benefits often exceed actual evidence, which needs to protect consumers from inflated expectations.

This results in the recommendation for consumers to take a critical look at CBD products and pay attention to quality and origin. The market is riddled with inferior offerings that do not contain the advertised active ingredient content or may contain impurities. It is advisable to choose products from reputable suppliers that offer independent laboratory analyzes and transparent labeling, and to always seek medical advice if you have health problems, as CBD should not replace medically prescribed therapies. Consumers should also keep an eye on the legal situation, especially when traveling, in order to avoid problems caused by different THC limits.

Manufacturers are advised to invest in quality assurance and transparency to build trust. Adhering to production standards such as Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and providing certificates of analysis are crucial to stand out from questionable providers. At the same time, they should actively participate in research to improve the scientific data and create the basis for broader acceptance and approval of their products. Working with authorities to advance novel food applications could also help reduce legal uncertainty and secure market access.

The appeal is directed at legislators to develop more uniform and clearer regulations that take both consumer protection and the industry's ability to innovate into account. In Europe, harmonization of regulations between member states would be an important step to unify the fragmented market. EFSA's resumption of processing novel food applications, supported by sound long-term data, could clarify the legal status of CBD. In addition, public education campaigns should be promoted to inform consumers about risks and benefits, as has been done in studies on pain treatment, for example PPT online, where the need for a differentiated view of cannabinoids is highlighted.

Looking at CBD products reveals a tension between potential and uncertainty, shaped by legal, scientific and market-related factors. While consumers, manufacturers and legislators each have their role to play, dialogue between these groups remains crucial to finding a balanced path forward. How this path takes shape in the coming years depends on the willingness to work together on solutions that promote security and innovation in equal measure.