CBD Labelling Is a Regulatory Minefield
CBD products in the UK exist in a complex regulatory landscape. They are classified as novel foods by the FSA (Food Standards Agency), must comply with general food labelling rules, cannot make medicinal claims, and must declare THC content to demonstrate legality. Getting labelling wrong can result in product seizure and prosecution.
Novel Food Status
Since February 2020, CBD extracts are classified as novel foods in the UK. This means CBD products require a validated novel food application with the FSA to remain legally on sale. Products without a valid application are technically unlawful to sell. Your label should not reference novel food status but your product must have it.
Mandatory Label Information
- Product name clearly indicating CBD content
- CBD content in mg (per serving and per container)
- Full ingredients list with allergen declarations
- Suggested use/dosage
- Net quantity
- Best before date
- Batch number
- Business name and address
- Storage conditions
- Food supplement statement (if applicable)
- Warning statements: not for use by pregnant or breastfeeding women, consult doctor if taking medication
THC Content
CBD products sold in the UK must contain less than 1mg of THC per container (not per dose). This is a criminal law threshold — exceeding it makes the product a controlled substance. While not legally required on the label, many brands display THC: less than 0.2% or THC: ND (not detected) to reassure consumers and retailers.
Health Claims
No medicinal claims are permitted. You cannot say your CBD product treats pain, anxiety, insomnia, or any other condition. Even implied health benefits through imagery or testimonials can breach regulations. You may only make EU Register approved nutritional/health claims for other ingredients in the product (e.g. vitamin content).
Materials
CBD products — especially oils in dropper bottles — need labels that resist oil spillage. Vinyl with UV-cured inks is resistant to CBD carrier oils (MCT, hemp seed oil). Matte vinyl gives the wellness-brand aesthetic most CBD companies target.
Ordering
StickerNation prints CBD labels on oil-resistant waterproof vinyl. Small bottle sizes from 10ml dropper bottles upward. No minimum order.