Europe advances in risk assessment of Δ8-THC in hemp food products

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has published a new scientific opinion that establishes a health-based guidance value (HBGV) for Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ8-THC), a compound present in hemp-derived products. The document also assesses the occurrence of this substance in foods available in the European market.

The opinion, released in the EFSA Journal, responds to a request from the European Commission and aims to support risk managers and regulatory authorities in evaluating food safety related to cannabinoids. Although Δ8-THC is structurally similar to Δ9-THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis — it is often described as less potent. Nevertheless, its consumption through food raises concerns about potential health effects.

Scientific assessment and available data

To establish the guidance value, EFSA experts analyzed data from clinical studies and estimated the relative potency between Δ8-THC and Δ9-THC, using this comparison as the basis to set a safe exposure limit. This parameter is not a legal limit but a scientific tool to guide regulatory decisions.

The document also highlights that data on the presence of Δ8-THC in foods is still limited, which hinders a comprehensive assessment of consumer exposure. According to EFSA, this gap reinforces the need for monitoring and conducting new studies on the subject.

Impact on the hemp-based products market

With the increasing availability of hemp-derived foods and ingredients in Europe, defining reference values becomes essential to ensure consumer safety and regulatory clarity. 

The EFSA opinion contributes to this process by providing a scientific basis for future risk assessments involving cannabinoids in foods.