The Controversial Ban on Cannabis Food Products in South Africa

The South African Department of Health has implemented an unconstitutional ban on food products containing cannabis, which industry experts have criticized as ill-informed. Organizations are demanding the ban’s reversal and warning of legal action. The prohibition, which lacks public consultation, undermines the potential economic benefits associated with cannabis, as experts highlight the importance of a supportive regulatory framework for growth and job creation in the sector.

Recently, the South African Department of Health implemented a ban on all food products containing any part of the cannabis plant, including hemp and CBD, which has been deemed unconstitutional and misguided by industry experts. Various organizations are urging the department to promptly reverse this decision, warning of legal action if the ban remains in force. The decree, which was gazetted on March 7 without public input, contradicts President Cyril Ramaphosa’s acknowledgment of the cannabis sector’s potential during his State of the Nation address.

During a webinar, Penny Campbell, the director of food control at the department, stated that the ban prohibits labeling products containing CBD or THC as foodstuffs. CBD is recognized for its therapeutic properties without causing intoxication, while THC is the psychoactive component. Campbell emphasized that the department aims to ensure safety standards and proper labeling of these products, rather than imposing a blanket ban.

Hemp, known for its low THC content, has numerous applications, including nutritional and industrial uses. However, Campbell noted that hemp has been decategorized as a foodstuff due to insufficient evidence regarding its nutritional benefits, a statement contested by lobbyists. Ayanda Bam, president of Friends of Hemp South Africa, argued that such a ban on cannabis-derived products is ludicrous, particularly given the nutritional value of hemp seeds and their versatile uses in food and cosmetics.

Experts have highlighted South Africa’s potential to capitalize on the global hemp market, with projections of significant growth. The current ban inhibits opportunities for economic development and international trade, which were acknowledged by Ramaphosa. Bam expressed concerns about the damage this ban could inflict on South Africa’s international reputation.

The global hemp seed market, estimated at $5 billion in 2023, is expected to see substantial growth. More than 1,400 compliant hemp cultivation businesses exist in South Africa, generating significant economic impact. The loss incurred by the industry due to this ban is substantial, further exacerbated by the over R4 billion already invested in the sector by the government and private sector.

Ben Sassman, founder of Hemp4Life, criticized the ban’s impact on market viability, stating that the current regulations make it unprofitable for businesses to operate. Tebogo Tlhopane, CEO of Biomuti, emphasized that effective legislation is vital for job creation and economic growth. He projected that the cannabis industry could potentially generate millions of jobs, provided there is adequate support and reasonable regulatory frameworks.

While the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition is developing plans to regulate the cannabis sector, progress appears to be slow. Sinah Mosehla, a representative from the department, indicated that the ban serves as a governmental regulatory measure. The Health Department has yet to respond to inquiries regarding the ban, while the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority refrained from commenting on its implications for health product regulation.

The recent ban by the South African Department of Health on cannabis-derived food products presents significant challenges for the industry and contradicts the government’s stated intentions of fostering a thriving cannabis market. Industry experts and stakeholders are calling for immediate reversal of the ban, emphasizing its negative implications for economic growth and job creation. To harness the full potential of the cannabis industry, a comprehensive and reasonable regulatory framework is essential for fostering investment and innovation in South Africa’s burgeoning hemp sector.

Original Source: mg.co.za