Food Safety Focus (150th Issue, January 2019) – Food Incident Highlight

Do Not Import or Bring Any Food Products Containing Cannabis into Hong Kong

The Cannabis Act in Canada which came into force recently legalises and regulates the recreational cannabis use.  Cannabis containing foods and beverages may be available in Canada. In Hong Kong, under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance (Cap.134), illicit import of cannabis or any products that contain controlled cannabinoids (such as tetrahydro-cannabinol, or "THC") constitutes a criminal offence.   Cannabidiol (CBD) is another cannabinoid present in cannabis plants but is not a dangerous drug controlled under Cap. 134.  However, since it is difficult to extract pure CBD, food products and drinks that contain CBD may highly likely contain other controlled cannabinoids. 

The local food trade should avoid importing or manufacturing products concerned lest they would breach the law.  Members of the public should pay special attention to the ingredients and/or labels of the food products when bringing food from overseas places into Hong Kong or ordering food on-line.