Certified hemp seeds comply with European Union legislation and guarantee a legal, traceable crop that complies with legal THC limits. They are the basis for the production of industrial hemp for uses such as fiber, grain or CBD extraction.
CBD flowers and CBD oils are obtained from seeds certified by the European Union.
What does it mean that a hemp seed is certified?
A seed is certified when:
- It comes from a variety registered in the EU Common Catalogue of Agricultural Varieties.
- It contains ≤ 0.3% THC in plant, complying with the European legal limit. THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis.
- It has been produced with guaranteed genetics (cannabis with low THC content) and traceability.
- Sold with documentation proving its legal origin.
Most common certified hemp varieties
Some of the most widely used varieties in the EU for their reliability, yield and adaptability:
- Futura 75: very popular in Europe, good for flower and fiber production.
- Finola: dwarf variety, precocious, excellent for seed (grain) production.
- Felina 32: good fiber and seed production.
- Santhica 27: variety with low THC and high CBG.
- Kompolti: traditional Eastern European, good for flower and fiber.
- Tiborszallasi: Hungarian variety, very aromatic, good for flowering.
Legal framework for hemp in the European Union
The legal framework for hemp in the European Union is based on several key regulations governing its cultivation, marketing and use:
- Regulation (EU) No. 1307/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013: this regulation establishes rules applicable to direct payments to farmers under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). In its Article 32, it specifies the conditions under which hemp cultivation is eligible for aid, highlighting that the varieties grown must have a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content of no more than 0.2%.
- Council Directive 2002/57/EC of June 13, 2002: This directive focuses on the marketing of seed of oil and fibre plants, including hemp. It establishes requirements for the production and sale of seeds within the EU, ensuring their quality and traceability.
- Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/126 of 7 December 2021: This regulation establishes additional rules for land under hemp to be eligible for direct payments, as well as rules on THC controls in the field and on hemp as a catch crop.
- National legislation applicable in each member country.
Uses of certified hemp seeds
Certified hemp seeds are selected genetics with qualities that make them suitable for use in different sectors:
- Textile industry and bioconstruction (fiber)
- Food seed production
- Extraction of CBD and other non-psychoactive cannabinoids
- Natural cosmetics and wellness products
- Biomass, compost and other sustainable uses
Frequently asked questions about certified hemp seeds (FAQ)
¿Se pueden comercializar libremente las semillas certificadas dentro de la UE?
Sí. Las semillas inscritas en el catálogo común de variedades agrícolas pueden circular libremente dentro del mercado europeo, siempre que vayan acompañadas de su documentación oficial. No obstante, cada país puede exigir trámites adicionales (registro de operadores, notificación a autoridades, etc.).
¿Qué requisitos hay para cultivar cáñamo industrial en España?
Para cultivar cáñamo legalmente en España se deben utilizar únicamente variedades certificadas y autorizadas, conservar etiquetas y facturas oficiales de la compra de las semillas para una posible inspección, notificar el cultivo a autoridades locales y, en algunos casos, obtener permiso adicional si se cultiva para flor o cannabinoides. Son posibles las inspecciones de campo.