A recent study published in the journal Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research found that most commercially available cannabidiol (CBD) products include misleading labeling.
The researchers evaluated the label accuracy and content of 97 hemp-derived CBD products. These legal hemp-derived CBD products included edibles, beverages, topical ointments, and self-care products. The products examined in the study are commercially marketed products available for purchase through retail stores or online bpousinesses (35 products purchased in-store and 62 online).
The research team measured cannabinoid concentrations using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to determine percent deviations between labeled and actual CBD concentrations. They also quantified references to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), external testing claims, and other claims (for example, therapeutic, beauty, or "other").
The study indicated that most products contained a different CBD potency than the amount advertised on the labels. Ten products contained no CBD. The researchers found that many manufacturers made either false or misleading claims about product effectiveness. They also found no difference in CBD percentage deviation between products purchased online or through a retail dispensary. 63% of labels did not feature disclaimers informing consumers that the product has not been evaluated by the FDA. 24% of the products made a cosmetic or beauty claim about improvements. Roughly 40% claimed the product had therapeutic benefits. 86% made claims that their products were free of dyes, parabens or other toxins and irritants.
Many health organizations and hemp associations have advocated for the Food and Drug Administration to establish and enforce regulations guiding the production, testing, labeling, and marketing of hemp CBD products. The researchers recommended more attentive regulatory oversight of cannabinoid-containing products to ensure quality assurance and prohibit more accurate labeling practices and responsible product marketing.
Source: Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research