Connect with us

Movements

3 Developments in CBD for the Food and Beverage Industry in 2020

mm

Published

on

Developments in CBD for the Food and Beverage

In 2019, the cannabidiol industry saw considerable growth, with the upward trend set to continue in 2020.

Despite the absence of federal guidelines, many CBD retailers delving into the food and beverage industry need to know about the three development points that may affect the sale of CBD products and the sector as a whole.

Clarification from the FDA

The Food and Drug Administration or FDA handed out several warning letters to CBD sellers, and as well as acknowledged the data gap and unanswered questions regarding CBD toxicity back in November 2019. Based on the Consumer Update published by the FDA, CBD incorporated into food or marketing as a dietary supplement is still illegal.

The FDA has included in its announcement the agency’s plan to explore other pathways that other CBD products can potentially be marketed with legal consent. It also looks forward to providing updates on the agency’s progress with the approach to be used on such products in the next few weeks.

Following this November announcement and the warning letters, CBD food, and beverage sellers need to be aware of the FDA’s next advisory regarding the products and how they could be lawfully marketed in 2020.

State and local response

The lack of federal guidance has prompted states to take matters in their own hands and craft a regulatory patchwork. However, these rules come in conflict with other established regulations across the US. In Maryland and New York, CBD-infused drinks and food are illegal. In the latter, city officials have sanctioned five restaurants that sell CBD edibles. The penalties range from $200-$650.

Industry players should watch out for the actions respective states will take amid the scarce federal regulation. New York has already passed a new law to take effect in March 2020, establishing the regulatory framework for CBD sale. New rules are bound to be issued by officials in the coming weeks.

Litigation

Class action litigation in the CBD industry is expected to rise in number this year, especially in cases concerning the food and beverage companies that sell CBD-infused products. Several lawsuits on the federal level have been filed against CBD manufacturers that allegedly violate the consumer protection laws of a state.

Industry experts predict that an avalanche of CBD-related complaints and lawsuits is imminent in 2020.

Further action

State and federal officials are set on determining the right course of action to take regarding CBD. Several private plaintiffs are also waiting for the developments in the food and beverage sector of the CBD industry. The high availability of CBD and CBD-containing products and the FDA’s latest pronouncement can stir a commotion in the private sector.

Cannabidiol manufacturers should, therefore, be on the lookout for any new changes or regulations in the industry to avoid legal complications and ensure that the CBD items they produce are lawfully allowed for sale.

Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *