Report: Low-THC cannabis products in Europe - EMCDDA, Lisbon, December 2020

The open sale of cannabis products in Europe has raised concerns among policymakers, both with regard to the legal status of these products and their potential for harm. The products are marketed for their low THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content, which sellers claim exempt them from control by drug laws, or as sources of CBD (cannabidiol). This publication presents an initial overview of the situation, covering the types of low-THC product available, user profiles, associated harms and regulatory responses in Europe. Low-THC products that take forms similar to illicit cannabis products, such as smoking mixtures, oils and edibles are a primary focus of this study. The report highlights the challenges facing both policymakers and those wishing to supply low-THC products regarding establishing the legal status of the products and which regulatory frameworks apply to their sale.

Series type: Ad hoc publication

Summary

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Introduction and rationale
- What are low-THC cannabis products?
The situation in Europe regarding low-THC products
- Types of low-THC products
- The sale of low-THC products in Europe
- Types of retailers
- Origin of the products
- Product quality
- Marketing of low-THC products
- Product labelling and disclaimers
- Characteristics and motivations of users of low-THC products
- The regulatory context for low-THC products
Recent regulatory responses to the rise in low-THC products
- Regulating THC levels at national level
- Regulating CBD products
- Quality control and law enforcement
Looking to the future: what traction do low-THC products have?
References
Resources
Acknowledgements