Portugal: Study reveals alarming disparities in the labeling of CBD, which remains banned in the country

A recent study of CBD products in Portugal reveals alarming disparities between advertised and actual cannabinoid content, underlining the urgency for robust regulatory oversight and standardized testing protocols. on one study In an exhaustive study, carried out by the University of Beira Interior, which is located in Covilhã, Portugal, it was found that many CBD products widely available on the Portuguese market do not correspond to the cannabinoid compositions indicated on the label. This disparity not only raises concerns about consumer confidence, but also poses potential risks to public health.

Cannabinoids are chemical compounds present in cannabis plants that are of particular interest due to their various effects and the most prominent include cannabidiol (CBD), known for its therapeutic properties, and ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which it is psychotropic and is heavily regulated.

Other cannabinoids, such as cannabinol (CBN), cannabigerol (CBG) and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), also play an important role in the therapeutic effects of cannabis products.

Legal overview of cannabis products

CBD continues to generate controversy in Portugal, with authorities insisting that any product with this cannabinoid requires approval from Infarmed – National Authority for Medicines and Health Products IP or a novel food authorization. However, producers claim the use of all parts of the hemp plant and claim that the CBD ban is 'unconstitutional'.

The legality of cannabis products continues to be a matter of little consensus worldwide, with different regulations depending on countries and regions. In Portugal, although pharmaceutical products and cannabis-based preparations are legal according to specific guidelines established by Infarmed, the drug authority, CBD remains, theoretically, banned throughout the country, including in Cosmetics. However, the reality is very different: there are thousands of users of CBD and hemp derivatives, with countless stores selling products derived from cannabis and hemp, whether in the form of oils, flowers, teas or cosmetics such as remembrances or collectible or decorative objects. The lack of rigorous testing protocols when it comes to CBD products leaves room for discrepancies in product labeling and consumer safety concerns.

Study methodology and conclusions

The study used high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to a photodiode array detector (HPLC-DAD) to analyze 31 hemp-based products available on the Portuguese market. These products included drinks, oils, flower samples and cosmetic formulations from high street stores and pharmacies in Portugal.

Results reveal labeling errors across all products

Among the products analyzed, significant discrepancies were observed between labeled and actual cannabinoid concentrations. Namely, none of the drinks sampled contained detectable cannabinoids, despite suggestive packaging. Several oils have also deviated from their stated cannabinoid compositions, with cases of CBD concentrations higher than those stated on the label.

Consumer safety and regulatory reform

The researchers highlighted that these inconsistencies have serious implications for consumer safety and informed decision-making. The findings highlight the urgent need for strict regulatory measures and industry-standard testing protocols to ensure product accuracy and consumer well-being.

Researchers at the University of Beira Interior highlight critical deficiencies in the labeling and composition of CBD products available in Portugal. Urgent reforms are needed to establish comprehensive regulatory frameworks that ensure the accuracy and safety of cannabis products. By addressing these issues, Portugal can pave the way for a more transparent and reliable market, which prioritizes citizens' health and regulatory compliance.

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João Xabregas

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With a professional background in CAD technical drawing (2D and 3D), João Xabregas is an activist and advocate for all uses and applications of cannabis. He discovered and entered the world of cannabis during his youth, where he developed a special interest in the cultivation of the plant, which led him on a journey of self-learning through the world of cannabis that continues to this day. His adventures linked to cannabis cultivation began with the same goal as many others: to be able to guarantee the quality and eliminate any possible risks to his health of what he consumed, as well as to avoid any type of dependence on the illicit market. However, he quickly began to view the world of cannabis and everything related to it with a very different perspective. He admits the enormous passion he has for the most persecuted plant in the world and about which he is always willing to write and have a good conversation.

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