In the first decision of its kind, The Portman Group has upheld a complaint against CBD gin ‘Colorado High’ in the UK for both creating a link with an illicit drug and implying therapeutic qualities. But the craft distiller behind the gin argues adults know and understand CBD and its distinction from cannabis.
In the UK, cannabis is an illicit drug but CBD is not. However, The Portman Group deemed the product created an indirect association with illicit drugs. It also said the product created a problematic link between alcohol and implied therapeutic effects of CBD.
But craft gin company Silent Pool Distillers believes adults are familiar with CBD - and understand its distinction from cannabis. It says the Portman Group - a self-regulatory industry watchdog funded by eight alcohol industry giants - has 'failed to grasp the reality of the CBD market'.