Study Finds Over-the-Counter CBD Products Less Potent Than Advertised

According to a new study published by the Journal of Dietary Supplements, many cannabinoid (CBD)-infused products that are purchased over-the-counter contain far lower percentages of cannabidiol than advertised on the products’ labeling. The study, titled Content versus label claims in cannabidiol (CBD) products obtained from commercial outlets in the state of Mississippi, was first reported on by NORML.

For the study researchers lab-tested 25 commercially available hemp/CBD oil products: All of these products are legally available, but none are regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration.

“Of the 25 products tested, 15 possessed quantities of CBD that were far below what was advertised on the products’ labels. Three of the products tested positive for levels of THC above the federal 0.3 percent limit. In four of the products tested, investigators identified the presence of synthetic cannabinoid adulterants.”

Authors concluded by stating that “From this small, but diverse sampling of hemp-derived merchandise, it appears that most product label claims do not accurately reflect actual CBD content and are fraudulent in that regard. … These findings argue strongly for further development of current good manufacturing practices for CBD-containing products and their stringent enforcement.”