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Cannabidiol ban in Switzerland: CBD oil must be made inedible.

In February, the Association of Swiss Cantonal Chemists warned of potential health risks associated with consuming CBD-containing foods. Now, on March 24, 2022, the Federal Chemicals Registration Office has mandated that CBD-containing oils may only be sold if denatured. The MEDCAN Association acknowledges this measure with regret.

Unlike in many European countries, CBD oils are not permitted for consumption in Switzerland, but have been allowed to be marketed as chemicals since 2017. By definition, they are not intended for oral ingestion. Due to a lack of recognition as a natural remedy, they can be advertised and successfully sold as fragrance oils or for external application. The problem is that consumers often disregard the usage guidelines. Many of our members also successfully use CBD for treatment.

Many people appreciate the effect

Cannabis teas or extracts from cannabis flowers have been among the most widespread natural remedies since ancient times. Even today, information on their medicinal use is readily available. Many people need CBD oils to treat health problems such as insomnia, pain, inflammation, skin conditions, anxiety, and much more. The applications are diverse, and these drops are often taken orally. This is no secret and is well-known throughout the industry. This loophole is being exploited.

The authorities intend to put a stop to this

Therefore, the chemical registration authority has now mandated that CBD fragrance oils must contain a denaturant. This measure effectively amounts to a ban on cannabidiol for oral consumption. Denaturants are added to hazardous substances such as cleaning agents to prevent ingestion and poisoning. CBD extracts will now also have to be made unpalatable with flavorings to prevent oral consumption. CBD oils as we know them, which are marketed as chemicals, may only be sold during a transition period of six months. This is not a pleasant prospect for the people who benefit from CBD extracts.

Well-intentioned by the authorities

MEDCAN is naturally interested in ensuring that only flawless CBD products are available to sick people and that their use is safe. It is also important that the authorities educate the public about potential risks. However, the opportunity to develop quality assurance measures and regulate the uncertified production and sale of CBD oils has been missed. These new measures will likely only drive patients to the black market or to order products from abroad. This will make quality control impossible and continue to put users at risk. CBD helps many people with their ailments. They have become accustomed to the products in Switzerland, value them, and will not simply stop using them if they experience health benefits. We find projects like the Swiss Certified Cannabis , which set standards and help consumers find the right products and feel confident in their use, much more sensible.