Understanding CBD Vaping: Laws, Limits, and Legality

Understanding CBD Vaping: Laws, Limits, and Legality

Both CBD and general vaping laws apply to these devices!

21 September 2023 | Hannah Rubery

Understanding CBD Vaping: Laws, Limits, and Legality (image)

The popularity of CBD vaping has soared in recent years, driven by its perceived health benefits and the convenience it offers. This trend has seen a rise in the number of people exploring this alternative to traditional nicotine vaping. However, it's important to note that CBD vaping, while appearing similar to nicotine vaping on the surface, holds some significant differences.

These discrepancies not only lie in the content of the vape juice—CBD vs nicotine—but also in the laws that govern them, the limits applied, and the necessary information required on the product. In the following sections, we delve into the intricacies of CBD vaping, with a focus on its legality, the regulations that apply, and other useful tips to ensure a safe and informed vaping experience.



Vaping Laws and How They Apply to CBD Vapes

CBD vaping is subject to an evolving landscape of laws and regulations that vary by location. Generally, these laws are designed to ensure consumer safety and are informed by research into the effects and potential risks of CBD use.

In many places, CBD vaping, much like nicotine vaping, is not permitted in certain public places to protect those who do not wish to be exposed to the substance. There is also an age restriction in place, with CBD vape products only being sold to individuals over the age of 18.

Interestingly, while nicotine vapes have strict limitations on the amount of vape juice they can contain, CBD vapes do not have a specific limit as long as they do not contain any nicotine. However, it's crucial to recognise that these laws are continually changing as further research into CBD is conducted, and it's essential to stay up to date with your local regulations to ensure the legal and safe use of CBD vapes.



Current CBD Regulations in the UK

Currently, in the United Kingdom, regulations surrounding CBD vaping are somewhat limited. This lack of stringent regulations means that the onus usually falls on the consumer to ensure the safety and quality of their CBD vape products. However, it's important to note that this landscape is subject to change as more research is conducted and more data becomes available.

In the United Kingdom, CBD products are primarily regulated by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the Food Standards Agency (FSA). Although CBD is not classified as a controlled substance, certain restrictions apply to its sale and marketing. Typically, CBD products, including CBD vapes, must not contain more than 0.2% of THC per container. This is because THC, the psychoactive compound found in cannabis, is listed as a controlled substance under UK law.

Recognising CBD as a novel food, the FSA has also imposed requirements on CBD food supplements. As of March 2021, businesses are required to have a validated novel food authorisation application for their CBD extracts and isolate-based products. This ensures that CBD products on the market meet strict food safety standards. This mainly applies to CBD oral drops.

In terms of vaping, CBD vape products should be compliant with general product safety regulations. This includes proper labelling that provides necessary information about dosage, ingredients, and potential side effects. Furthermore, as with nicotine vaping, CBD vaping is age-restricted, prohibiting sales to individuals under 18 years old.

It's crucial to remember that while the current regulations are more permissive, they are subject to change as research into CBD continues. Therefore, staying informed about the latest CBD regulations is key to a safe and legal CBD vaping experience.



Conclusion

In the UK, while regulations on CBD vaping are relatively lenient, certain restrictions apply to ensure consumer safety and product quality. These include age restrictions, product labelling requirements, and specific controls on THC levels within CBD products. As research into CBD progresses, these regulations are subject to change.

CBD vaping, like any other product, should be undertaken with due diligence. Consumers must take responsibility for the safety and quality of their CBD vape products, ensuring they comply with local laws and regulations, and are well-informed about their usage and potential side effects. In the end, the laws around CBD vaping are very similar to normal vapes so remember to be mindful about where you vape.