CBD Statistics UK (United Kingdom)

Research Summary: In recent years, the United Kingdom has been one of the fastest-growing markets for CBD products, with consumer demand rising due to growing recognition of the potential health benefits of cannabinoids.

Despite increased scrutiny and regulation from authorities, the CBD industry in the UK remains a dynamic and evolving market with opportunities and challenges for companies.

Key Takeaways:

• Almost a third (29%) of survey respondents in the UK reported having used CBD before.

• The most frequent reason for taking CBD, as determined by the 2023 UK survey, is to enhance sleep quality, chosen by 36% of respondents.

• In March 2022, the FSA announced that more than 3,500 CBD products are permitted for sale in the UK, subject to full market authorization.

• The UK’s consumer market for CBD products was valued at £690 million in 2021. The UK’s CBD market is projected to surpass £700 million in sales in 2023 and approach £800 million in 2024.

• The average usage of CBD per month is 7.81 times.

• In 2023, individuals who used CBD at least once a month in the past year spent an average of £34.25 per month on CBD products.

General CBD Statistics and Data

The increasing demand for CBD products in the UK can be attributed to a growing interest in natural remedies and alternative therapies for medical conditions and preventative health.

The legal status of CBD use and the availability of products through multiple distribution channels also contribute to the market’s success.

Let’s examine the figures we’ve collected to gain insights into the CBD market in the UK.

The UK’s CBD market is set to exceed £700 million in sales in 2023 and nearly £800 million in 2024. 

It’s worth noting that the UK is the biggest CBD market in Europe, with annual sales nearly four times higher than the next leading country.

In 2023, almost a third (29%) of survey respondents in the UK reported having used CBD before.

This demonstrates a growing interest in and acceptance of CBD products as a potential means to address various health and wellness concerns.

In 2022, a list of more than 12K CBD-infused products that had been available in the UK before February 2020 was published by the Food Standards Agency (FSA). 

Categorized under food and beverage, these products are allowed by the FSA to be sold on the market unless their application for novel foods gets turned down.

The list was launched more than two years after the UK’s food safety regulator pledged to regulate the country’s consumer cannabinoid space.

GW Pharmaceuticals, the first cannabinoid pharmaceutical company to be listed in the UK, was sold for $7.2 billion in 2021.

Despite the plant’s illegal status and the lack of any intentional policy or political support for the growth of the cannabinoid industry, the UK achieved a significant milestone.

Holland & Barrett offers over 70 in-store and online CBD products across 715 locations.

Tesco is currently the leading supermarket in cannabinoid-infused wellness products, with 25 options available, including a CBD-infused dry shampoo that’s in stock.

The UK’s rise in the CBD market can be attributed to high demand, product innovation, clear regulations, and significant retail adoption.

In 2021, the UK’s consumer market for CBD products was valued at £690 million.

It was a significant increase from £314 million in 2019. It’s surprising to note that the UK has unintentionally become the world’s second-largest consumer of cannabinoids after the US.

Interestingly, we spend more on cannabis extracts than on vitamins B and C combined.

Cureleaf acquired EMMAC Life Sciences for £220 million, which was an indicator of the surging demand for CBD products among consumers and the increasing value of the industry.

Moreover, it indicates that the UK possesses certain comparative advantages in this rapidly evolving global market.

Surprisingly, 6% of people revealed that they had administered CBD to their pets.

Extrapolating this to the general population suggests that hundreds of thousands of pet owners in the UK already use CBD on their cats, dogs, and horses.

Note – The full term for CBD is cannabidiol.

CBD Usage Statistics

There has been increasing media coverage on the potential benefits of CBD, which has helped to drive interest in these products.

In addition to the growing awareness of the potential health benefits of cannabinoids, the CBD market in the UK also flourishes due to its legal status.

Learn more about the usage of CBD in the UK through the figures we’ve collected below:

In 2023, almost a third (29%) of survey respondents in the UK reported having used CBD before.

This demonstrates a growing interest in and acceptance of CBD products as a potential means to address various health and wellness concerns.

Males are more likely to have tried CBD before, as they are 9% more likely than females.

Specifically, 34% of male respondents reported having tried CBD, compared to 25% of female respondents.

Younger Brits (under 24 years of age) are significantly more likely to have used CBD compared to those over 55 years old, with a rate of 53% versus 15%, respectively.

This indicates a decline in CBD usage with age.

Approximately 11% of the survey respondents in the UK use CBD daily in 2023.

Additionally, 5% use it 4-6 days a week, and 12% use it 2-3 days a week.

In 2023, the majority of survey respondents (16%) reported using CBD only once a week.

Meanwhile, 13% of respondents stated that they have not used CBD products in the past year.

Roughly 26% of professional rugby players in the UK use or have used CBD.

The primary reasons cited for usage were to enhance recovery (80%), improve sleep (78%), reduce anxiety (32%), and for other medical purposes (14%), such as concussion.

The average usage of CBD per month between February 2022 and January 2023 was 7.81 times.

Males in the UK used CBD less frequently, at 7.64 times per month, compared to females who used it 8.04 times on average.

On average, CBD users in the UK consume 28mg of CBD dosage. 

Males consume a higher average dose of CBD oil (29mg) than females, who have an average dosage of 26mg.

Approximately 17% of respondents have not tried using CBD because they are unaware of its potential benefits.

On the other hand, 13% expressed concerns about potential side effects.

Almost 9% of respondents have not tried using CBD because they are uncertain about its legality in the UK.

In addition, 6% of respondents do not believe that CBD can be effective.

Nearly 7% of respondents did not use CBD products because they were unsure about where to purchase them.

Another 7% cited high cost as the reason for not trying it.

Related Post: Is Full Spectrum CBD Oil Legal in the UK?

CBD Products Statistics

The UK CBD market offers a diverse range of products, such as oils, capsules, tinctures, edibles, and topical creams.

This product diversity is fueled by the growing number of companies operating in the market and the rising demand for various product types.

The data we’ve gathered can provide valuable insights into the various products inside the CBD market in the UK.

CBD oil is the most frequently used CBD product, as reported by 13% of respondents.

CBD gummies (7%) and CBD vapes (7%) were the second most commonly used products.

In 2023, roughly 4% of respondents in the UK reported using CBD topicals.

On the other hand, 3% indicated previous usage of CBD patches.

Approximately 5% of survey respondents in the UK reported using CBD capsules.

Another 5% of them revealed they opted for CBD drinks.

CBD vapes were the most popular product used by respondents under 24, with 17% of users reporting usage.

CBD oil (15%) and CBD gummies (13%) were also commonly used in this age group.

Meanwhile, CBD oil was the most commonly used product among respondents over 25.

Out of 29 products tested, 11 products (38%) were accurately labelled for CBD content within 10%.

Another 38% had less than half of the advertised CBD content. One product had no CBD at all.

THC content in more than 45% of the products exceeded the legal limit of 0.04% for CBD products sold in the UK.

Additionally, one product contained 3.8% ethanol, classifying it as an alcoholic drink and unsuitable for general sale.

Related Post: Do You Need a License to Sell CBD Oil in the United Kingdom?

CBD Purchases Statistics

The CBD market in the UK is seeing a shift in purchasing behaviour, with consumers making informed decisions through research and online shopping.

Personalized experiences and a preference for high-quality products are also driving purchasing trends in the market.

The insights of our research below may be helpful in gaining a deeper understanding of the purchasing behaviours of CBD users in the UK.

To gain insights into how and why CBD is used in the UK, let’s take a closer look at the figures we have gathered.

In the latter half of 2021, each shopping trip by British consumers saw a £2.28 increase in value (up by 15%).

British consumers spent more on CBD products than in pre-pandemic times but less frequently.

However, the frequency of shopping trips was down by 10%.

In 2023, individuals who used CBD at least once a month in the past year spent an average of £34.25 per month on CBD products.

This suggests that regular users of CBD products may be willing to pay a higher price to maintain their usage.

Roughly 54% of CBD consumers in the UK prefer to shop for CBD products online.

In contrast, in-store purchases are more popular among 46% of CBD consumers.

Among CBD users under the age of 24, 62% prefer to make in-store purchases of CBD products.

Additionally, all users aged 25 and above prefer to buy them online.

Approximately 43% of respondents consider price to be the most crucial factor when purchasing CBD products.

This makes it 1.5 times more significant than clear product labels deemed important by 30% of survey participants.

Consumption advice from the company on how to use a CBD product is most important to 27% of survey respondents.

This highlights the importance of clear instructions and guidance from CBD companies to educate consumers on the proper use of their products.

Approximately 23% of survey participants regard the brand as the most crucial factor when selecting a CBD product.

Consumers may have positive associations with a particular brand due to factors such as its quality, safety, and effectiveness.

Having organic and sustainable CBD products drives CBD purchases among 21% of survey participants.

This emphasises the relevance for CBD companies to prioritize sustainability and environmental consciousness in their production processes and marketing strategies to appeal to this market segment.

Roughly 20% of survey participants reveal that a certificate of analysis by a third party convinces them to purchase a CBD product.

This certificate verifies the product’s purity, potency, and safety by testing it in an unbiased third-party laboratory.

An estimated 17% of survey respondents seek only locally sourced and produced CBD products.

This highlights the importance for CBD companies to consider and communicate the origin and production of their products to appeal to this segment of the market.

Related Post: Become a CBD Oil Distributor in the UK

CBD Application Statistics

CBD has long been used as a safer alternative to various pharmaceutical drugs, particularly for the purpose of treating a range of diseases and disorders.

As more research is carried out to investigate CBD’s potential therapeutic benefits, an increasing number of people in the UK are making it a part of their healthcare routine.

We have provided below the figures that paint a picture of what consumers in the UK are using CBD for. Check these out:

The most frequent reason for taking CBD, as determined by the 2023 UK survey, is to enhance sleep quality, chosen by 36% of respondents.

This highlights the potential market value of CBD products that are marketed for sleep enhancement.

Roughly 35% of respondents disclosed that they use CBD for pain management.

This highlights the potential market value of CBD products that are marketed for pain relief.

Almost one-third (32%) of respondents in the UK used CBD to alleviate anxiety.

Anxiety is a common issue that some individuals in the UK may attempt to address through CBD products.

Approximately 25% of UK survey respondents used CBD to enhance overall health and well-being.

This indicates that CBD may be perceived as a potential solution to various health-related issues.

An estimated 19% of survey respondents reported using CBD just to experiment. 

A significant minority of CBD consumers in the surveyed population may be using CBD products out of curiosity or experimentation and may be trying CBD products for the first time or exploring the potential benefits of CBD.

Opinion

Despite growing research on CBD’s potential benefits, the lack of scientific evidence to support its use for certain medical conditions leads to differing opinions on its effectiveness.

In addition to the lack of scientific evidence, opinions about CBD in the UK vary due to a combination of factors, including misinformation, legal status, personal experiences, and media coverage.

As more research is conducted on the potential benefits of CBD and public awareness increases, it is likely that opinions about CBD will continue to evolve and change.

Approximately 24% of adults in the United Kingdom agree that the use of CBD should be legal for everyone.

There is an increasing shift in public opinion toward the legalization of CBD, which may reflect changing attitudes towards the regulation of cannabis-derived products more broadly.

Nearly one in four or 23% of UK adults can see themselves using CBD.

This may be influenced by the fact that CBD is generally well-tolerated, and there have been no reports of serious adverse side effects associated with its use.

Roughly 18% of UK adults say they prefer CBD for medicinal purposes over chemical medication.

This may be driven by their desire for more natural and holistic treatment options and their positive CBD product experiences.

Approximately 26% of UK adults consider CBD a suitable replacement for conventional medical products.

Increasing research on the potential of CBD to deliver therapeutic benefits, such as alleviating pain, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep, are influential on their perception of CBD.

FSA

In the UK, the legal status and accessibility of CBD products are contingent on regulation.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is the primary regulatory body for CBD in the UK, responsible for establishing guidelines to ensure the safety of CBD products for consumption.

The significance of CBD regulation in the UK is to guarantee that consumers can obtain safe and high-quality CBD products while preventing the sale of illicit or unregulated products.

The data we’ve collected below showcases the remarkable advancements in CBD regulation in the UK:

The Food Standards Agency has recently expanded its list of CBD products, adding 6,000 additional items. 

This is the definitive list of ingestible CBD products associated with a credible novel foods application and allowed to stay on the market.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has expanded the list of CBD products permitted for sale, adding 2,500 new items. 

With these additions, 5,946 ingestible CBD products are now allowed to remain on the market in England and Wales, pending full market authorization. Meanwhile, 35 products have been removed from the list.

In 2022, the FSA published a list of 3,536 CBD products that are permitted to stay on the market – 68% of them are associated with applications submitted through the Association for the Cannabinoid Industry Novel Foods Consortium.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that no new products or brands can be introduced without full authorization.

This includes even a rebranding of a validated product. Nonetheless, business-to-business sales are permitted.

Since 1 January 2021, the FSA has received more than 900 novel food applications for CBD products sold in England and Wales. 

Of these, approximately 680 applications were rejected, while 42 were withdrawn by the applicants voluntarily.

In March 2022, the FSA announced that more than 3,500 CBD products are permitted for sale in the UK, subject to full market authorization. 

This marks a significant development as it’s the first time that the FSA has allowed the sale of CBD oils, drinks, capsules, gummies, and other edibles.

Final Notes On United Kingdom CBD Statistics and Data

The UK CBD market is expected to keep expanding, although it could encounter some regulatory and market obstacles in the near future.

Nevertheless, the market’s long-term prospects look bright as more people discover the health advantages of CBD products, and demand keeps increasing.

FAQ

Is CBD legal in the UK?

In the UK, CBD is legal as long as it meets specific criteria.

This includes being derived from approved industrial hemp strains with less than 0.2% THC and being sold as a food supplement or cosmetic product without making medical claims.

It’s essential to be aware of illegal CBD products in the UK.

Are there any side effects of using CBD?

While CBD is generally safe, users should be mindful of potential side effects.

These may include dry mouth, nausea, diarrhoea, drowsiness, changes in appetite and weight, dizziness, and changes in mood or behaviour.

It’s important to note that these side effects are usually mild and temporary and can vary based on the individual and the dosage used.

What is the recommended dosage of CBD?

CBD doses of up to 1,500mg/day have been shown to be well-tolerated in studies, but optimal dosage varies among individuals.

Dosage recommendations are determined by weight, intended use, and form.

Begin with a low dose and gradually increase until the desired effects are observed.

Before use, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional, particularly if taking medication or having underlying medical conditions.

Where can I buy high-quality CBD products in the UK?

Reputable places to buy CBD products in the UK include online retailers, health food stores, specialist CBD shops, and pharmacies.

When buying CBD products, it’s important to look for products labelled as being third-party tested, which means that an independent laboratory has verified the product’s contents.

Does CBD show up on drug tests?

CBD is typically not tested for on drug tests, but trace amounts of THC in some CBD products can potentially show up.

Choose products labelled as 0% THC or made from CBD isolate, and purchase from reputable sources to avoid contaminated products.

What is the current state of CBD regulation in the UK?

UK CBD legality requires that products be derived from EU-approved industrial hemp strains with <0.2% THC, not make medical claims, and be sold as food supplements or cosmetics.

The FSA regulates CBD safety in the UK and mandated CBD companies to submit novel food applications by March 31, 2021, to prove product safety and quality before the legal sale.

It is worth mentioning that a number of CBD products are still unauthorized by the FSA in the UK as of June 2023.

What is the projected growth of CBD in the UK?

The UK CBD market is poised to flourish at an astounding compound annual growth rate of 29.6% from 2020 to 2025, outpacing the growth of many other markets in Europe and blooming into one of the most rapidly expanding industries on the continent.

Sources

• brightfieldgroup.com
• theaci.co.uk
• researchonline.ljmu.ac.uk
• www.statista.com
• hodgesreview.com
• food.gov.uk