CBD baked goods at by CHLOE
photo by Leslie Kirchhoff

CBD edible ban in NYC delayed until summer

New Yorkers, your CBD lattes and baked goods are safe… for now. After pulling CBD-infused edible products from NYC restaurants, cafes, and bars earlier this month, citing federal guidance that doesn’t label CBD “safe as a food additive,” the Department of Health is now temporarily reversing course, Gothamist reports. The embargo on removing CBD edible products has been postponed until June 30, with an “education-only” period to be implemented until then. Beginning on October 1, violations will be subject to to fines beginning at $200 and points affecting letter grades from the Department of Health.

“The Health Department is responsible for promoting the safety of the food available to New Yorkers,” the Health Department said in a statement to Gothamist. “The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has advised that it is unlawful to add cannabidiol (CBD) to food or drink. We are currently informing businesses in New York City that may sell food and drink about this regulation, and have implemented an educational period to help them achieve compliance.”

City Council Speaker Corey Johnson opposes the CBD ban, and is considering legislation to overturn it. “What medical professionals have said is CBD in small doses in food products is not harmful – and does not even get people high, that there’s a medicinal quality that can help with anxiety and other health benefits,” he said on Wednesday.