Pregnant women told to avoid CBD products in first ever advice

Pregnant women or new mothers who are breastfeeding are being advised not to consume increasingly popular products that contain a chemical found within cannabis plants.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued its first ever safety advice on CBD (cannabidiol) products, which are produced using a chemical compound extracted from the cannabis plant.

CBD has become popular in the treatment of pain, muscle soreness or spasms, irritable bowel syndrome, depression, anxiety and insomnia.

It can be found in a range of products such as oils, balms, sweets, bakery products and drinks.

Image:CBD is a chemical compound extracted from the cannabis plant

A growing number of celebrities - including Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Aniston, and Gwyneth Paltrow - have all extolled the benefits of CBD products.

The FSA, which regulates the food industry, has now issued advice on the consumption of CBD products, which are widely available - through high street chains such as Holland & Barrett - but not yet properly authorised.

Healthy adults are advised to think carefully before taking CBD, with the FSA recommending no more than 70mg a day, unless following a doctor's instruction.

This is the equivalent of about 28 drops of a product containing 5% CBD.

In addition, those who are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking any medication are advised not to consume CBD products at all.

The FSA has also given those producing CBD goods until 31 March 2021 to submit applications for their products to be authorised as meeting legal standards.

After that date, only products which have had a valid "novel food authorisation" application submitted will be allowed to remain on the market.

Image:Gwyneth Paltrow is among celebrities who have endorsed CBD products

Local councils have been told businesses in their area should only be able to sell their existing CBD products if they are correctly labelled, are not unsafe to eat and do not contain substances that fall under drugs legislation.

Emily Miles, the FSA's chief executive, said: "The actions that we're taking today are a pragmatic and proportionate step in balancing the protection of public health with consumer choice.

"It's now up to industry to supply this information so that the public can be reassured that CBD is safe and what it says it is."

The FSA's advice on the consumption of CBD products is based on recent findings by the government's committee on toxicity.

Professor Alan Boobis, the committee's chair, said: "My committee has reviewed the evidence on CBD food products and found evidence there are potential adverse health effects from the consumption of these products.

"We are particularly concerned about pregnant or breast-feeding women and people on medication.

"We don't know enough to be sure about such a risk but I am pleased with the sensible and pragmatic approach the FSA is taking.

"The committee will continue to keep these products under review in the months ahead."

The FSA announcement will have no impact on those who take medically prescribed CBD or cannabis.