How to read CBD labels (UK): a simple, compliant guide for humans and pet owners

Not sure what all the numbers and terms mean on a CBD bottle? This clear guide explains how to read CBD labels (UK), so you can make informed, responsible choices. We cover strength, ingredients, lab reports, UK legal context, and important notes for pet owners. This article is educational and not medical advice.

How to read CBD labels (UK): the essentials at a glance

• Strength: Look for CBD in milligrams (mg) per bottle and, where provided, mg per serving.
• Spectrum type: Full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate — each describes the cannabinoid profile.
• Ingredients: Carrier oil (e.g., MCT or hemp seed oil), flavourings, allergens.
• THC and controlled cannabinoids: Reputable UK products provide third-party lab reports confirming compliant levels.
• Lab report (COA): Independent testing matched to a batch number on the label.
• Usage guidance and warnings: Age restriction, storage, best-before date, and precautionary advisories.
• Regulatory context: Novel Foods (for ingestibles), cosmetics compliance (for topicals), and VMD guidance for animals.

How to read CBD labels (UK): understanding strength and servings

On most UK CBD oils, strength is shown as total CBD in mg per bottle (e.g., 500 mg in 10 ml) and sometimes as a percentage (e.g., 5%). If a serving size is given (for example, a number of drops), brands may also show mg of CBD per serving.

Example for learning only: a 10 ml bottle labelled 5% (500 mg total) typically contains about 200 drops. That’s roughly 2.5 mg CBD per drop. This helps you compare products like-for-like. It is not dosing advice.

For ingestible CBD in the UK, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) currently gives precautionary advice that healthy adults consider a maximum daily intake of 10 mg CBD per day. This may be updated; always check the latest FSA guidance and follow the label instructions.

How to read CBD labels (UK): spectrum types explained

• Full-spectrum: Contains CBD alongside a range of naturally occurring hemp compounds, including trace controlled cannabinoids within UK legal limits. Always verify with a lab report.
• Broad-spectrum: Similar to full-spectrum but typically processed to remove detectable THC, while retaining other cannabinoids and terpenes.
• Isolate: Highly purified CBD, usually 99%+ CBD with no other cannabinoids.

Choose based on your preferences and the product’s verified lab profile. The label should clearly state the type used.

How to read CBD labels (UK): THC and controlled cannabinoids

UK law tightly controls THC and certain related cannabinoids. It’s common to see labels or lab reports stating “ND” (non-detectable) or trace levels within UK legal parameters. A frequent compliance benchmark in the UK market is that finished consumer products contain no more than 1 mg of THC (and other controlled cannabinoids) per container, supported by third-party testing.

Important: The often-cited 0.2% figure relates to licensed hemp cultivation, not a finished retail product limit. For consumers, the most reliable indicator is a current, independent Certificate of Analysis (COA) that matches the product’s batch number.

How to read CBD labels (UK): ingredients, allergens, and quality markers

• Carrier oil: Common options include MCT oil and hemp seed oil. These influence taste, texture, and clarity.
• Allergens and flavourings: Check for nut oils, flavourings, or potential allergens.
• Batch number and expiry: Ensure the label shows a batch/lot number and a best-before date.
• Brand details: Clear contact information and a UK address add accountability.
• Lab report access: A QR code or URL linking to the COA is ideal.

How to read CBD labels (UK): Novel Foods and the FSA Public List

Ingestible CBD products in the UK fall under the Novel Foods regime. Responsible brands can demonstrate their products are linked to a valid Novel Foods application that appears on the FSA’s Public List. Before buying, check whether the brand or specific product is included on that list and follow any brand guidance that references it.

How to read CBD labels (UK): topicals and cosmetics

For CBD balms, creams, and cosmetics, look for:

• INCI ingredients list (cosmetics naming standard)
• Responsible Person details (UK contact)
• Batch code and Period After Opening (PAO) symbol
• Confirmation of a Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR) available on request

How to read CBD labels (UK): usage guidance and safe storage

• Follow the product’s instructions and do not exceed the advised amount.
• FSA precautionary advice: healthy adults consider a maximum of 10 mg CBD per day for ingestibles. Check for updates.
• Not for use by those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you have a medical condition or take medication, speak to a healthcare professional.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight. Keep out of reach of children. UK retailers typically supply CBD only to over-18s.

How to read CBD labels (UK): important notes for pet owners (VMD guidance)

In the UK, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) considers products containing CBD intended for animals to be veterinary medicines. At present, CBD products for animals are not authorised as veterinary medicines in the UK. That means brands must not market CBD with veterinary medical claims or as pet supplements.

If you are a pet owner, speak to your vet before considering any product for your animal. Do not rely on marketing claims. If your vet discusses cannabinoid-based options, they will advise you on the lawful, appropriate route. Avoid giving animals products not intended for them, and never provide anything with uncontrolled or unverified THC content.

Common UK label red flags

• Medical or therapeutic claims (e.g., treating or curing specific conditions).
• No batch number or missing/dated lab reports.
• Unclear CBD strength (only a percentage, no mg, or vague serving info).
• No brand contact details or UK address.
• Claims that confuse cultivation limits (0.2%) with finished product law.

Quick checklist before you buy

• Does the label (and website) show total CBD in mg, and ideally mg per serving?
• Is the spectrum type stated and supported by a current COA?
• Does the COA match the product’s batch number and container size?
• Is the product linked to the FSA Novel Foods Public List (for ingestibles)?
• Are there clear warnings, storage guidance, and brand contact details?

About BioMed CBD

BioMed CBD is a UK-based, education-led brand focused on clarity, responsible use, and transparency. We support informed choices through clear labelling, accessible COAs, and compliant communication. If you have questions about how to read CBD labels (UK) or want help interpreting a lab report, our team is happy to assist.

This content is for general information only and does not replace professional advice. Always consult a healthcare professional (and, for animals, your veterinary surgeon) with any questions about suitability.