Why CBD foods are novel foods
A novel food is one without a significant history of consumption in the relevant market before May 1997. CBD extracts and isolates used in food were confirmed as novel foods in England and Wales in 2019, so they need authorisation before being placed on the market.
Food rules are only part of the picture. Depending on the product and claims, medicines, cosmetics, vaping and controlled-drug rules may also be relevant.
What the FSA public list means
The list covers England and Wales and records products linked to applications that meet the FSA's criteria. Products marked validated or awaiting evidence may remain on the market pending further consideration. Products not listed, or marked removed, should be withdrawn.
The FSA states that inclusion is not an endorsement and does not guarantee eventual authorisation. Search the current register rather than relying on an old screenshot or retailer badge.
The current consumer advice
The FSA advises healthy adults to limit CBD from food to 10 mg a day. This is precautionary lifetime-exposure guidance, not a suggested dose or a promise that a product will have an effect.
CBD is not recommended for under-18s, people taking medication, people who are immunosuppressed, those trying to conceive, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding unless under medical direction.
Why the 0.2 percent claim is misleading
You may see claims that a finished product is legal if it contains less than 0.2 percent THC. Home Office guidance does not describe a general 0.2 percent allowance for finished consumer products. The figure is associated with approved hemp varieties and cultivation.
The law around controlled cannabinoids is technical. Shoppers should favour traceable products and measured claims. Businesses should obtain specialist advice rather than treating a slogan as compliance.
Sources and further reading
We prioritise primary UK regulatory sources and review links when this guide is updated.