The Importance of CBD CERTIFICATION: 13 Investigates discovers some CBD products contain little or no CBD at all

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NOT ALL CBD IS CBD

INDIANAPOLIS (WTHR) — They are three letters that seem to be everywhere in Indiana. CBD specialty shops are popping up all over the state. Major grocery stores and pharmacies are selling it. Gas stations and pet shops stock CBD. You can even find it on the menu at some local restaurants and coffee shops.

But an Eyewitness News investigation has found many cannabidiol products sold in Indiana do not contain the amount of CBD advertised on the label, and consumers have little recourse or protection because local and state agencies are not enforcing Indiana’s CBD labeling law.

CBD in water, chocolate and toothpaste

CBD, or cannabidiol, is found in cannabis plants. Because it is considered to have medicinal qualities that can ease pain, anxiety, seizures and other medical issues in some of its users – claims not yet approved or recognized by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration for the vast majority of CBD products – CBD has skyrocketed in popularity. But it wasn’t long ago that CBD was considered illegal in Indiana.

Edie Billhimer first called WTHR about CBD products in 2017. (WTHR)

Edie Billhimer called 13 Investigates in summer 2017 to report Indiana State Excise Police had raided a Fresh Thyme Farmers Market and removed all of the store’s CBD products.

Edie’s call prompted a WTHR investigation, revealing the state had done the same thing at dozens of other stores across Indiana, fining retailers and forcing them to remove CBD from their shelves.

WTHR’s reporting caught the attention of state lawmakers and the governor, who responded by legalizing CBD in 2018. Now it’s everywhere.

“I can’t believe it’s been almost three years,” Billhimer told WTHR this month. “There are so many CBD shops and places that sell CBD now, and it’s exciting!”

The CBD craze comes not only with high hopes but also with a high cost.

Depending on its potency, CBD oil extract can cost more than $150 per ounce. The price tag for a bottle of CBD-infused water (now available at some health food stores) can be ten times higher than the price of regular bottled water. Local gas stations charge $19.99 for a small bag of CBD-infused gummies, compared to a bag of traditional gummy bears that costs $1 at a grocery store.

But what are you getting for your money?

CBD can now be purchased across Indiana, including from specialty shops, major grocery stores, pharmacies and even gas stations. (WTHR)

To find out, 13 Investigates purchased CBD products from a variety of local and online retailers. We bought CBD creams and capsules, several drinks and waters, oils, sprays and vaping liquid.

WTHR also purchased many popular CBD-infused edibles, such as gummy bears, a lollipop, taffy and some chocolates. Intrigued by a tube of CBD toothpaste, we got that too.