IS CBD LEGAL IN SPAIN?
The use of CBD is becoming widespread in many countries around the world. Is its sale legal in Spain?
The use of CBD is becoming widespread in many countries around the world. But what is happening in Spain? Is its sale legal?
We answer this and other questions about this exceptional cannabinoid.
We are experiencing a revolution when it comes to medicinal cannabis.
The list of countries that are legalizing its use increases every month and future forecasts are very optimistic.
In fact, recently, the WHO (World Health Organization) issued a historic statement addressed to the UN (United Nations Organization), recommending removing Cannabis from Schedule IV of the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs of 1961.
This is the list where the most dangerous and addictive substances are found, such as cocaine or heroin.
The UN decision in this regard occurred in December 2020 and expectations are very high.
What is CBD?
Before delving fully into the topic of the legality of CBD, let’s talk a little about this interesting component of the Cannabis plant.
That CBD is fashionable is an irrefutable fact, and that more and more people around the world are consuming it (in countries where it is allowed) is a verifiable reality.
CBD is one of the more than 100 cannabinoids present in the Cannabis plant. Unlike THC, Cannabidiol does not get high, that is, it does not have a psychoactive effect nor does it cause any type of addiction.
Is CBD legal in Spain?
The answer is yes, CBD is a legal and safe product, however, in Spain, its sale for human consumption is prohibited and its marketing is only permitted as a cosmetic product for external use.
Most brands that sell CBD in Spain have registered and packaged their products as cosmetics.
CBD as a novel food or “Novel Food”
In November 2017, the WHO Expert Committee on Drug Dependence issued a report in which it concluded “CBD or Cannabidiol in its pure form appears to be a safe substance, which is not harmful and also has no risk of abuse.” .”
Despite this, European authorities, specifically the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority), have classified CBD as Novel Food.
This means that until a regulation is carried out, the EFSA prohibits its marketing as a dietary supplement in all those member states, such as Spain, in which plants cannot be classified as such, which does happen in Germany, Switzerland or Italy among others.
Likewise, the EFSA informed all member states that they should withdraw all products classified as dietary supplements and containing CBD.
Situation of CBD products
In Spain, pending regulation from the European Union, CBD cannot be registered as a food supplement.
It is the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products that establishes a List of authorized food supplements.
Only in some countries in the European Union, CBD is recognized as a food supplement.
CBD for external use
Both in Spain and in most European countries, there is no legal or administrative obstacle to marketing products derived from industrial Hemp for external use.
It is an essential requirement that “For external use only” appears on the product labeling.
It is therefore illegal to sell CBD for human consumption, such as CBD Afghan Hash, which can lead to some confusion.
The information contained, referenced or linked from this publication is for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide any legal or medical advice. This article is not intended to be a substitute for any medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
