France Proposes Ban on CBD in Cosmetics Across Europe
France plans to ban CBD in cosmetics across Europe due to potential health risks, sparking regulatory reviews and industry concerns
Key Points
- 1France proposes banning CBD in European cosmetics due to health concerns
- 2ECHA raises potential reproductive toxicity issues with CBD
- 3European Commission reviews CBD's safety in cosmetics
- 4EFSA highlights data gaps on CBD's safety as a novel food
- 5Industry stakeholders urged to submit data by September 2024
France is moving to ban the use of cannabidiol (CBD) in cosmetic products across Europe, citing potential health risks. This initiative stems from concerns raised by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) about CBD's possible reproductive toxicity. If successful, this could lead to CBD being classified as a carcinogenic, mutagenic, and reproductive toxicant (CMR), thereby prohibiting its use in cosmetics
CBD, both in its natural and synthetic forms, is currently listed in the European CosIng database for approved cosmetic ingredients due to its anti-sebum, antioxidant, moisturizing, and skin-protective properties. However, the European regulation No. 1272/2008, known as the CLP regulation, could impact CBD's status due to its classification and labeling requirements. The French proposal to the ECHA marks the beginning of a process that could ultimately result in a ban
The European Commission (EC) is also reviewing CBD's safety in cosmetics through a separate consultation process. This follows the Kanavape ruling, which clarified that CBD cannot be classified as a narcotic under the United Nations Single Convention. The EC's call for data aims to assess CBD's safety, with a particular focus on its effects on the liver, gastrointestinal tract, endocrine and nervous systems, and reproductive health
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has highlighted significant data gaps concerning CBD's safety as a novel food, particularly regarding its impact on human health and reproductive toxicity. The EFSA's statement underscores the need for more research to establish the safety of CBD consumption, which could influence its use in cosmetics. The consultation period for submitting relevant data to the EC is open until September 30, 2024
The potential ban on CBD in cosmetics could have wide-reaching implications for the industry, affecting manufacturers and consumers alike. While CBD is praised for its beneficial properties, the ongoing regulatory scrutiny highlights the need for comprehensive safety evaluations. Stakeholders in the cosmetic industry are encouraged to provide data to the EC to ensure informed decision-making regarding CBD's future in cosmetic products