Use of CBD Products

This report presents findings from a survey commissioned by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and conducted by Ipsos UK to explore consumer use of cannabidiol (CBD) products. The study aimed to understand prevalence of CBD use, motivations for use, levels of reliance, purchasing behaviours, and awareness of regulatory guidance. From a nationally representative starting sample of 1,968 adults aged 18-75 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, 384 participants reported using CBD in the past 12 months and answered further survey questions. Results show that CBD use is most prevalent among younger adults (18–34), people from ethnic minority backgrounds, and those in higher social grade groups. The most common reasons for use include supporting general wellbeing and managing mental health conditions, with a significant proportion of users reporting feelings of reliance—particularly those using CBD for physical health reasons and pain relief. If CBD products were withdrawn from the market, most users indicated they would seek alternatives. Purchasing decisions are primarily influenced by trust in retailers or brands, product strength, value for money and price. Reliant users are more likely to be influenced by social media and celebrity endorsements. Health food shops and supermarkets are the most common sources of CBD products, though reliant users are more likely to purchase from pharmacies and online platforms. A minority of users were aware of regulation. Less than half of users were aware that CBD products are not authorised for use in food, or that the FSA has published a list of products being considered for authorisation, or of the FSA’s recommended daily intake limit.