Mexican health officials have issued a warning regarding the illegal sale of products containing CBD, hemp extract, and hemp oil. These items, marketed under various brands, are being sold without proper authorization, posing potential health risks to consumers, according to the Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (Cofepris) .
Notably, one of the brands at the center of this controversy is Paradise, a company linked to former President Vicente Fox. While Fox publicly supports cannabis legalization, Cofepris has identified Paradise as operating outside of current health regulations. The company offers a range of products, including edibles, supplements, cosmetics, and beverages infused with CBD and hemp derivatives.
Cannabis advocate
Although the former president has stated on several occasions that he is not the owner of the company, which has more than 400 branches in 25 states of Mexico, he has used his image to promote the brand’s products, according to Cofepris.
Fox has been a vocal advocate for the legalization of marijuana and hemp, arguing that regulation could generate economic growth and reduce drug-related violence. Since leaving office, he has actively promoted the cannabis industry, emphasizing its potential for medical, recreational, and industrial applications.
A billboard promoting Paradise CBD (Photo: Mexico News Daily)
Unregulated production
In addition to Paradise, other brands such as Doctor CBD, Join’t Me, CBDFX, TRYP, Crazy Eats, and Kanabi were warned by Cofepris, which said they may carry health risks due to unregulated manufacturing processes. The agency has also highlighted concerns about false documentation presented by some manufacturers, which could mislead consumers into believing the products are safe and legal.
The unauthorized products are being distributed through various platforms, including websites, social media, self-service stores, and independent distributors, Cofepris said. The lack of regulation in their production, storage, and transportation raises concerns especially for vulnerable populations like children and the elderly, according to the agency.
Cofepris also warned that combining the unregulated products with other medications could lead to unknown interactions, further endangering health.
Still highly restricted
A framework for marijuana and hemp in Mexico has been slow to develop despite looking poised for development as far back as 2020.
Under the Country’s General Health Law, the use of cannabis and its derivatives, including CBD and THC, is restricted exclusively to medical and scientific purposes, and may not be used in the production of food, supplements, cosmetics, or beverages.
While there have been legislative efforts to decriminalize and regulate cannabis for various uses, key regulations remain stalled in the Senate, leaving the commercialization of such products in a legal gray area. Meanwhile, Cofepris continues to enforce existing laws, seizing unauthorized products and issuing warnings.
Fox has been a vocal advocate for the legalization of marijuana and hemp, arguing that regulation could generate economic growth. Read More
