Cannabis-Derived Products in Europe: A Multi-Country Regulatory Survey of Agricultural, Food, and Medical Legislation in 11 EU Member States

Cannabis and hemp-derived products are becoming increasingly important in Europe for agricultural and medical purposes; however, their regulation remains complex. In this study, we reviewed national rules and legislation on cannabis cultivation, use, and regulation in the European Union (EU) using a structured questionnaire. The structured questionnaire was distributed to all 27 EU Member States. Responses were obtained from 11 countries and analyzed descriptively. The results show that EU agricultural regulations, including the 0.3% THC limit, are largely implemented across countries, although certain national differences persist. Hemp products are generally permitted; however, their use as foods or supplements is restricted by Novel Food legislation. Cannabidiol, centrally authorized as an antiepileptic medicine, is recognized in all participating countries, while other cannabis-based medicines are subject to heterogeneous national regulations and strict dispensing conditions. Recreational use of high-tetrahydrocannabinol cannabis is prohibited in all participating countries. In conclusion, based on the responses from 11 countries, although the agricultural regulation of hemp is largely harmonized within the EU, substantial differences remain in medical and food-related regulations, highlighting the need for further EU-level coordination.