Yes — With Conditions
CBD oil is legal to buy, sell and possess in the UK as a food supplement, provided it meets certain regulatory requirements. The key points of UK CBD law as of 2026:
THC Content Must Be Under 0.2%
This is the most important compliance factor. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is a controlled substance under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. CBD products may contain trace THC from the hemp plant, but products are legal only if THC concentration is below 0.2% (by weight of the product). Products above this threshold are classified as controlled substances.
FSA Novel Food Regulation
Since February 2020, CBD products sold as food or food supplements in Great Britain require authorisation under the Novel Foods regulation. The FSA maintains a public validated products list. Technically, only products on this list should be on sale — though enforcement is inconsistent. Buying from brands on the validated list is the safest approach.
CBD Cannot Be Sold as Medicine Without Authorisation
Companies cannot make medical claims about CBD products unless they hold a medicines licence from the MHRA. This is why you see vague “supports wellbeing” language — not “treats pain” or “reduces inflammation.” Sativex (prescription-only) is the only CBD-based product licensed as a medicine in the UK.
Is It Legal to Drive After Taking CBD?
Yes, as long as it doesn’t impair your ability to drive. CBD itself is not listed as a controlled substance. However, a full-spectrum product with trace THC could, in theory, show on drug tests — though very unlikely at legal THC concentrations. If drug testing is a concern (work or sport), use CBD isolate products.
For up-to-date regulatory guidance, visit the FSA website at food.gov.uk or the MHRA at gov.uk/mhra.