Ask Our Experts: European Hemp THC Limits

 

Q: The European Parliament voted to increase the maximum legal THC level for industrial hemp “on the field” from 0.2% to 0.3%. What will it mean for the industry?

 

By Trevor Yahn-Grode, Data Analyst, New Frontier Data

A: The change from 0.2% to 0.3% may not seem like much, but it is a big deal for the European hemp industry. For one, it significantly increases the number and range of cultivars available to European farmers. Second, it gives cultivators much more breathing room when it comes to testing hot, which is a serious risk for many hemp farmers. Lastly, it shows the European Union’s willingness to listen to the industry.

Many industry stakeholders believe that even 0.3% THC is an artificially low definition for hemp, and higher THC limits would allow for the creation of heartier, higher-yielding cultivars. As such, there is a concerted effort by industry trade groups such as Vote Hemp to introduce a 1% THC limit on hemp. If nothing else, the ruling shows that governments are willing to offer some flexibility on THC limits.