FTC Cracks Down on False Claims by CBD Sellers

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has taken action against sellers of cannabidiol (CBD) products who made scientifically unsupported claims about their ability to treat serious health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. The orders bar the sellers from future deceptive advertising and require that scientific evidence be given to support any health claims for CBD or other products.

The FTC crackdown, dubbed Operation CBDeceit, targeted six CBD suppliers including the Utah-based Bionatrol Health and Isle Revive, who sold CBD oil to consumers on two websites, claiming it treats pain better than OxyContin and prevents and treats age-related cognitive decline. Another Utah company, Epichouse, also operating under the name First Class Herbalist, advertised its CBD cream, coffee, and gummies as preventing cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.

CBD Meds and G2, based in California, also part of the FTC action, advertised their CBD oil on a website and YouTube, claiming it prevents or mitigates artery blockage, cancer, glaucoma, autism, and schizophrenia. A company called HempmeCBD made online claims its shea butter, gummies, lozenges, and other CBD products cure substance abuse and AIDS.

Andrew Smith, director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, warned that the crackdowns send a clear message to the growing CBD industry: “Don’t make spurious health claims that are unsupported by medical science. Otherwise, don’t be surprised if you hear from the FTC.”