Growing CBD Cannabis in France: What the Law Says

What is CBD? CBD is short for cannabidiol, a molecule that is one of the many cannabinoids found in hemp, also known as cannabis, in its natural state. Unlike THC, for delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, CBD is not classified as a narcotic, unlike Cannabis with a THC level greater than 0.2%, which is considered a narcotic. Cannabidiol is extracted from hemp plants in the same way as THC. The latter, which is the source of the psychoactive effect of cannabis, is illegal in France. In its natural state, some varieties of hemp are higher in CBD, others in THC. At Ferme de Sainte Marthe, we only sell population varieties (non-F1 hybrid) of CBD-certified varieties. Is the cultivation and consumption of CBD cannabis legal? In France, it is the consumption of THC that is prohibited. CBD is not classified as a narcotic because it is not one. The law therefore does not prohibit CBD strictly speaking. It regulates hemp, the plant from which it is derived, which is subject to authorization, as it is for the textile or construction industries. Growing CBD is therefore possible in France. However, hemp cultivation is regulated. Can CBD hemp be produced in France? The French authorities have issued some guidelines to follow in this context. Anyone planning to produce cannabidiol (CBD) must: - Use one of the varieties listed by the Ministry of Health and authorized in France - Use certified seeds supplied by approved organizations - Respect the THC content imposed for hemp plants, set at 0.2% in France. There are several varieties that respect this level, including those proposed by the Ministry of Health. The authorities may regularly require laboratory testing to ensure that the producer complies with these laws. Individuals planning to produce CBD are also required to declare their activity. The request must be submitted to the police and the FNPC (National Federation of Hemp Producers). Purchasing CBD seeds is legal in France, provided they are kept for collection purposes only.