How Old Do You Have To Be To Buy CBD In California
CBD, short for cannabidiol, has gained significant popularity in recent years. With its potential health benefits, many people are curious about trying CBD products. However, buying CBD in California comes with certain regulations, including age restrictions.
Read on as we explore the following:
- The legal minimum age for purchasing CBD in California
- The different types of CBD products available
- Important factors to consider when buying CBD as a minor
INDEX
CBD Laws in California
Understanding The Age Limit for Buying CBD in California
The legal age to purchase CBD in California
Age restrictions for different types of CBD products
Why Age Restrictions Exist
Types of CBD Products Legal in California
Where to Legally Purchase CBD in California
Navigating the Purchase Process
Legal Consequences of Underage CBD Purchases
Staying Informed About Changes in Legislation
Final Thoughts
CBD Laws in California
California is among the states that have been at the forefront of cannabis legalization, both for medical and recreational use. The state first legalized medical cannabis in 1996, and it has since continued to expand its cannabis laws.
In 2021, the state passed Assembly Bill 45, which legalized the sale and manufacture of hemp-derived CBD products and consumable CBD.
With the passing of Assembly Bill 45, CBD is legal in California. However, there are age restrictions in place for purchasing CBD products. Adults must be at least 18 years old to purchase hemp-derived CBD oil in the state.
The Farm Bill and CBD Legalization
To understand the legality of CBD in California, it's essential to consider federal law as well. In 2018, the U.S. passed the Farm Bill, which legalized the growth, production, sale, and use of industrial hemp nationwide. According to the Farm Bill, industrial hemp must contain 0.3% or less THC by volume.
However, it's important to note that the Farm Bill doesn't allow CBD from industrial hemp to be used in food or beverage products. This diverges from FDA regulations, which do not permit CBD-infused foods and beverages.
Understanding The Age Limit for Buying CBD in California
As CBD is from the cannabis plant, its legality can vary from state to state.
In California, CBD is legal for both medical and recreational use. However, there are age restrictions in place to ensure that CBD products are used responsibly. These restrictions are in accordance with the state laws and regulations surrounding cannabis consumption.
The legal age to purchase CBD in California
In California, the legal age to purchase CBD products depends on the type of CBD and its source.
For hemp-derived CBD, which contains less than 0.3% THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis), the legal age is 18. This includes CBD oils, tinctures, capsules, and topicals made from hemp.
CBD products derived from cannabis, which may contain higher levels of THC, can only be purchased by individuals who are 21 years or older. However, California CBD laws also allow those aged 18 and above to buy cannabis for medicinal use, provided that they have their physician's recommendation.
Age restrictions for different types of CBD products
It's important to note that age restrictions may vary for different types of CBD products.
While the legal age for purchasing CBD oils and topicals is 18 for hemp-derived products, certain CBD-infused edibles or beverages may have a higher age requirement. This is because edibles and beverages are considered more potent and have a greater potential for misuse.
When purchasing CBD products, be sure to check the age requirements specified by the manufacturer or retailer.
Why Age Restrictions Exist
Age restrictions still exist due to several factors:
Lack of federal regulation
The FDA hasn't yet approved CBD as a food or dietary supplement at the federal level, leaving a regulatory gap. California, like many other states, has implemented its own regulations, including age restrictions, to fill this gap and protect consumers.
Potential for misuse
Although CBD is generally considered safe, some concerns exist about its potential for misuse, especially among minors. These concerns include:
- Interaction with other medications: CBD can interact with certain medications, and teenagers are more likely to be taking prescription drugs.
- Gateway to other substances: Some experts worry that CBD use could lead to experimentation with other drugs, including marijuana.
Similarities to THC
CBD shares some chemical similarities with THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana. This similarity, even though most legal CBD products contain minimal THC (less than 0.3%), makes some legislators cautious about access for minors.
Public policy
California's age restriction aligns with its general policy of restricting access to age-sensitive products like alcohol and tobacco. This consistency helps to ensure clear regulations and enforcement.
Protecting vulnerable populations
Minors are considered a vulnerable population, and age restrictions can help to protect them from potential harm associated with CBD use.
Types of CBD Products Legal in California
Some of the legal CBD products available in the state include:
- Topicals: Lotions, creams, balms, and salves infused with CBD for skin application.
- Oils and tinctures: Concentrated liquids taken orally or sublingually.
- Edibles: Gummies and other food products infused with CBD.
- Capsules and softgels: Pills or gel capsules containing CBD oil.
- Pet products: CBD oil for your canine and feline
It's important to purchase CBD products from licensed retailers to ensure their quality and compliance with state regulations. Look for reputable brands like Bluebird Botanicals or licensed dispensaries in California to buy CBD products.
Where to Legally Purchase CBD in California
In California, CBD products can be purchased from licensed cannabis retailers, including dispensaries, wellness centers, and even some grocery stores. Licensed retailers adhere to strict regulations, including quality control, content testing, and accurate labeling.
Here is a list of physical stores, along with their corresponding cities, that carry Bluebird Botanicals CBD products:
- S&S Produce in Chico
- B-Alive Vitamins in Fresno
- Wild Roots Market in Felton
- Orchard Nutrition Center in Redding
- Sunrise Natural Foods in Roseville
- Sprouts in Encinitas, Glendale/LA, and San Diego
- Mama's Medicinals in Ukiah
- Country Sun Natural Foods in Palo Alto
- The Other Path CBD in Sherman Oaks/LA
You can also buy CBD products from our online store.
Important Note: When purchasing CBD online, look for retailers who provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to verify the product's potency and safety.
Navigating the Purchase Process
When purchasing CBD in California, there are a few important steps to keep in mind:
1) Check age restrictions
Ensure that you are of legal age to purchase CBD in California. Adults must be at least 18 years old to buy hemp-derived CBD or 21 years old to purchase marijuana-derived CBD oil.
2) Choose a licensed retailer
Purchase CBD products only from licensed retailers to ensure their quality and compliance with state regulations. Look for retailers who provide COAs to verify the potency and safety of their products.
3) Read labels
Before making a purchase, read the labels of CBD products carefully.
CBD products should be accurately labeled to provide consumers with important information about their contents. Check if the label clearly states how much CBD is present in the product, and look for additional information on THC content, especially if you want to avoid psychoactive effects. Familiarize yourself with common terms, such as "full-spectrum," "broad-spectrum," and "CBD isolate."
4) Consider product type
CBD comes in different forms, including oils, edibles, and topicals. Consider your preferences and desired effects when choosing a CBD product.
5) Research brands
Do your research and buy only from reputable brands that prioritize quality and transparency. Check customer reviews to determine how effective or reliable the brand's products are.
Additionally, check the third-party lab test results of any CBD product you are considering. These lab reports provide information about the product's quality, potency, and purity.
The lab tests must have been conducted by an independent testing facility. It should also include a cannabinoid profile, pesticide analysis, and heavy metal testing.
Legal Consequences of Underage CBD Purchases
It's essential to abide by the age restrictions for purchasing CBD in California. Selling CBD products to minors is illegal and can have legal consequences for the buyer and the seller.
Retailers must comply with state laws and are required to verify the age of buyers.
There are several ways in which age verification can be done:
- Asking for a valid government-issued identification card like a driver's license or passport.
- Utilizing age verification software or services.
If you are under the legal age to purchase CBD in California, it's important to respect the law and wait until you reach the appropriate age. CBD is a substance that should be used responsibly and in accordance with state regulations.
Staying Informed About Changes in Legislation
CBD laws and regulations are constantly evolving. Be aware of any changes in legislation that may impact the legality and accessibility of CBD in California. Keep an eye on updates from the California Department of Health and stay informed about any new laws or regulations regarding CBD.
By following the legal guidelines, you can ensure that you're buying and using CBD products legally and responsibly.
Final Thoughts
CBD is legal in California, but there are age restrictions when purchasing CBD products. Note also that as per Assembly Bill 45, there is a specific age restriction for CBD in California depending on the type of product:
- Hemp-derived CBD: Must be 18 years old to purchase.
- Marijuana-derived CBD: Must be 21 years old to purchase. 18-year-old individuals can legally buy if they have a medical marijuana license.
Also, purchase CBD products from licensed retailers and always stay informed about any changes in legislation that may impact the legality of CBD in the state.
Remember to use CBD responsibly and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns. CBD can offer potential health benefits, but it's important to use it in accordance with state laws and regulations.
