Today people are more than ever aware of what they are taking. Consumers are worried about additives and fillers in the products. Also, they scrutinize packaging and check the ingredients listing to find out more data on what they use/consume.

Doing the same with CBD products you have decided to buy is very important for health-conscious CBD users.

This article looks at the most critical factors to keep in mind when choosing between CBD products. Below are some of the questions to be answered before buying the CBD supplement.

What is the order in which the ingredients are listed?

Usually, people wonder about the concentrations of product ingredients. As a rule, the first ingredients to appear on the ingredients list are present in higher concentrations than the ones that follow them¹.

Is the manufacturer trustworthy?

Unfortunately, as the demand for any product increases, more untrustworthy manufacturers start selling the product. Most legitimate CBD manufacturers offer a copy of laboratory reports from independent third-party labs on their official website or the product label. Also, it can help verify the amount of CBD and THC present in the final product.

What ingredients are added for flavor?

Often the manufacturer adds sweeteners and artificial flavors to improve the taste of the active ingredients. If you do not want to have artificial flavoring in the product you buy, choose the one that contains essential oils, added terpenes and fruits as the main flavor source².

What additives are used?

Some products may contain additives and fillers to make you think you buy more. These substances are not always harmful. It is worth knowing that not all additives are mentioned on the product label.

How much CBD does the product contain?

The amount of CBD may be crucial when you start taking the product. Also, it is important when you go for a higher dose. More importantly, CBD is a major factor in pricing the product. Most common additives and fillers include cellulose, gelatin, carrageenan, potassium sorbate, titanium dioxide, and artificial colors².

What is the bottle size?

Sometimes even the bottle size may help to understand the product quality. CBD oil bottles usually come in 15 ml, 30 ml, 100 ml sizes. If you have a 450 ml bottle, it’s probably not the product with CBD oil.

What is the batch number?

The batch number is very important. It helps tie your specific bottle of CBD oil to a laboratory test. Sometimes manufacturers use QR codes that directly link to the test for your batch.

What is the source of ingredients?

Natural ingredients are usually better absorbed by human bodies than synthetic ones. Besides, natural ingredients cause fewer side effects.

What else does product claims?

Some CBD products may have the following claims³:

• Certified gluten-free
• Vegan
• Organic
• Non-GMO
• Cruelty-free
• Kosher
• Halal
• Fairtrade
• Sulfate-free
• Paraben-free

This data gives you more information about the product and helps you make the right choice.

When you are buying a CBD product, and need additional facts, ask a medical professional or shop assistant to decide on the most appropriate choice.

References

1. Pavlovic R, Nenna G, Calvi L, et al. Quality Traits of “Cannabidiol Oils”: Cannabinoids Content, Terpene Fingerprint and Oxidation Stability of European Commercially Available Preparations. Mol J Synth Chem Nat Prod Chem. 2018;23(5). doi:10.3390/molecules23051230
2. Astorino D. How to Buy the Best Safe and Effective CBD Products. https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/buy-best-safe-effective-cbd-120009997.html. Accessed December 7, 2019.
3. Bouknight D. What to know about CBD products’ safety. Ag Journal Online – La Junta, CO. https://www.agjournalonline.com/zz/timeandmoney/20190513/what-to-know-about-cbd-products-safety. Accessed December 7, 2019.