Is CBD legal in France?

Although it is becoming increasingly popular and legalized, CBD does not meet with unanimous approval in some countries. Its legality is a complex issue: some governments allow it in its entirety, while others impose specific restrictions on THC levels. This is particularly the case in France. What is legal and what is prohibited? Here's the lowdown.

Legal CBD consumption in France

With one of the strictest regulations on cannabis, you'd think Europe would be closed to CBD (cannabidiol) consumption. Yet it is perfectly legal in France, on one condition: THC content must be less than 0.3%.

In France, CBD is classified as a "novel food". According to the French Health Insurance, it is "a substance naturally present in the cannabis plant (or hemp)". The sale of CBD as a medicinal product is prohibited.

Cannabis use remains prohibited, however. The French Observatory of Drugs and Addictive Tendencies classifies it as a narcotic.

CBD in France: constantly evolving legislation

France's position on CBD is changing. In 2021, an interministerial decree of December 30, 2021 was published. This prohibited the sale of cannabis flowers and leaves "in their raw state" with a THC content of less than 0.3%.

On December 29, 2022, this legal ban was overturned by the Conseil d'Etat. According to the Conseil, CBD poses no health risk and has no psychotropic effect. What's more, it does not cause dependency. Its prohibition was therefore unjustified.

Travelling abroad with CBD: our advice

While CBD consumption is legal in France, this is not the case in certain countries. Before taking your CBD products across the border, it's a good idea to find out about the legislation in the country in question. Some countries require a medical prescription, while others impose a certain THC content.

During your research, take into account the reliability of the source and its publication date. As laws change, it's important to follow the latest recommendations.

In France, Spain and Germany, the limit is 0.3%. This is not the case in Sweden, for example, where any CBD product containing traces of THC is illegal. If in doubt, we advise you to opt for a broad-spectrum CBD product, or even a CBD isolate, rather than a full-spectrum product.

> Read also: What is full spectrum CBD?