South Africa has implemented a nationwide ban on cannabis and hemp food products, sparking controversy and raising questions about the country’s stance on cannabis regulation.

On 7 March, the Department of Health announced the ban, which prohibits the import, manufacture, and sale of food items containing cannabis or its derivatives. The ban applies to products made from the Cannabis sativa plant, including hemp seed oil, hemp flour, and cannabis-infused beverages.

The decision, published under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectants Act, aims to protect public health by preventing unregulated cannabis food products from reaching consumers, including minors. The government cited safety concerns and the lack of a national framework for the safe production and testing of cannabis-infused foods.

Critics argue that the ban could hinder economic growth and job creation in South Africa’s emerging cannabis industry. The policy also contrasts sharply with the recent Cannabis for Private Purposes Bill, which permits private cultivation for personal use. This inconsistency has fueled debates about the government’s commitment to cannabis legalisation.

Retailers have been ordered to remove cannabis-derived food products, such as hemp seeds, hemp oil, and protein powder, from shelves immediately.

Despite the ban, cannabis remains a key component in the pharmaceutical sector, where it is prescribed to manage conditions such as cancer, Parkinson’s disease, and arthritis. Medical cannabis is available by prescription from authorised healthcare providers and can be dispensed by registered pharmacists.

Some industry experts suspect that lobbying efforts from the pharmaceutical and alcohol industries may have influenced the ban, as cannabis-based products pose competition in the market.

As the country navigates its cannabis policies, uncertainty remains over the government’s regulatory approach and the future of the cannabis industry. The ban highlights ongoing debates around public safety, economic empowerment, and the balance between regulation and legalisation.