Is CBD Actually Legal in the UK? Here’s What to Know

If you’re new to CBD drinks, one of the first questions that usually comes up is:

“Is this actually legal?”

It’s a fair question, especially with how often CBD gets confused with cannabis.

It’s also something people still have questions about. While many UK consumers assume CBD products are regulated, a sizeable minority still express concern about their legal status, which is why it’s worth breaking it down clearly.

The short answer is yes, CBD is legal in the UK.

But there are a few important things behind that, and that’s where the Food Standards Agency (FSA) comes in.

Key Takeaways

• CBD is legal in the UK when it meets regulatory requirements

• The Food Standards Agency oversees CBD as a novel food

• The recommended daily intake is 10mg of CBD

• SKÏP contains 5mg per can, making it easy to stay within guidance

• Not all CBD products are equal, transparency and testing matter

Is CBD Legal in the UK?

Yes, CBD is legal in the UK, as long as it meets certain requirements.

The key distinction is between:

• CBD (cannabidiol)

• THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)

CBD is a non-intoxicating compound derived from the hemp plant.

THC is the compound associated with a “high”.

In the UK, legal CBD products must:

• be derived from approved hemp strains

• contain only trace amounts of THC (0.2% or less)

So when you’re drinking a CBD drink like SKÏP, you’re not consuming something that will make you feel high.

What Is The FSA's Role In Regulating CBD?

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is responsible for overseeing food safety in the UK, and that includes CBD products.

CBD is currently classified as a novel food, which means it wasn’t widely consumed before 1997 and needs to be assessed for safety.

The FSA’s role is to:

• review CBD products for safety

• provide guidance on consumption

• ensure companies meet certain standards

So when you see CBD discussed alongside the FSA, it’s about safety, quality, and transparency.

This structure is a big part of why the category has grown steadily. The UK CBD market is now estimated to be worth over £300 million, with regulation playing an important role in building consumer trust.

How Much CBD is Safe to Drink Per Day?

The FSA currently recommends that healthy adults should not exceed 10mg of CBD per day.

This is a general guideline designed to keep daily consumption at a level considered safe. It’s not about strict rules, but more about giving people a clear reference point.

If you’re unsure whether CBD is suitable for you, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional.

How Much CBD is in a Can of SKÏP?

Each can of SKÏP contains: 5mg of CBD.

So based on the FSA’s guidance:

• 1 - 2 cans per day sits within the recommended range

That’s why it tends to fit easily into a daily routine, without needing to overthink it.

What Does FSA-Compliant Actually Mean?

When a product is described as FSA-compliant, it means it’s been developed in line with the standards and expectations set by the Food Standards Agency.

That typically includes:

• meeting safety requirements

• following proper sourcing and production processes

• providing transparency around ingredients and testing

For a brand, it’s about showing the product has been created responsibly, not just quickly put together.

Is Cold-Pressed CBD Legal in the UK too?

Yes, the method used to produce CBD doesn’t make it illegal.

Cold-pressed CBD is still legal in the UK, as long as the final product:

• meets THC limits

• follows regulatory standards

• complies with FSA guidance

The process is more about how the product is made, rather than whether it’s allowed.

Are all CBD Drinks in the UK FSA-Compliant?

Not necessarily.

While CBD itself is legal, not every product on the market meets the same standards.

That’s why it’s worth looking for:

• transparency around ingredients

• clear lab testing

• information about compliance

At SKÏP, the focus is on:

• careful sourcing

• third-party testing

• making information available if customers want to see it

It’s part of building trust, especially in a category that’s still relatively new.

What to Look For in a Legal, FSA-Aligned CBD Drink

What This Means for You Day to Day

In practice, it’s quite straightforward.

You’re drinking something that:

• is legal in the UK

• follows established guidelines

• has a clear recommended daily intake

You don’t need to treat it like anything complicated.

It’s still just a drink, something you reach for as part of your day.

The regulatory side sits in the background, helping ensure everything is made safely and consistently.

So rather than overthinking it, it really comes down to choosing products from brands that are clear about what they’re doing, and then treating it like any other drink in your routine.

FAQs

Is CBD legal for under-18s?

CBD is not suitable for children under. SKIP is only sold to over 18’s.

Can I drink SKÏP in any UK country (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)?

Yes, CBD regulations apply across the UK, so it can be consumed in all four nations.

Is CBD a controlled substance in the UK?

CBD itself is not a controlled substance, provided it meets legal requirements and contains only trace levels of THC.

Has the FSA approved SKÏP specifically?

The FSA does not approve individual products in the traditional sense. Instead, it sets the framework that products must follow.

What is novel food authorisation?

It’s a process used by the FSA to assess whether new or previously uncommon food products are safe for consumption.

Could CBD be made illegal in future?

Regulations can evolve, but CBD is currently legal under a clear framework. Changes usually focus on standards rather than removing legality altogether.