“Where to Buy EU-Compliant CBG and CBN Wholesale for Cosmetics and Wellness”

 

Table of Contents:

1.       Introduction: The niche growth of CBG and CBN

2.       EU Cosmetic and Wellness Regulations

3.       Top Use Cases for CBG/CBN in Formulations

4.       Finding Trusted EU Suppliers

5.       Certificates and Testing Requirements

6.       Importing Tips for 2025

7.       Conclusion

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.       Introduction: The niche growth of CBG and CBN

The European cannabinoid market has evolved significantly over the past decade, with CBD (cannabidiol) dominating consumer interest and regulatory discussions. However, as we move into 2025, two lesser-known cannabinoids—CBG (cannabigerol) and CBN (cannabinol)—are gaining traction as niche but rapidly growing segments.

While CBD remains the most widely recognized non-psychoactive cannabinoid, CBG and CBN are emerging due to their unique therapeutic properties and increasing scientific validation. Europe, with its progressive stance on hemp-derived products, is becoming a hotspot for innovation in these minor cannabinoids.

✅Understanding CBG and CBN: The Science Behind These Cannabinoids

What Is CBG (Cannabigerol)?

CBG is often referred to as the "mother of all cannabinoids" because it is the precursor from which other cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and CBC are synthesized. Unlike THC, CBG is non-intoxicating and has shown promise in preclinical studies for its potential benefits:

• Anti-inflammatory properties – Research suggests CBG may help reduce inflammation, making it a candidate for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (Borrelli et al., 2013).
• Neuroprotective effects – Studies indicate CBG may protect neurons, which could be beneficial for neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington’s.
• Antibacterial activity – CBG has demonstrated strong antibacterial effects, particularly against MRSA (Appendino et al., 2008).

What Is CBN (Cannabinol)?

CBN is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that forms when THC degrades over time. While it is not as potent as THC, it has gained attention for its potential sedative and therapeutic effects:

• Sleep aid – Early research suggests CBN may have sedative properties, making it a potential natural sleep aid (Russo, 2011).
• Pain relief – Some studies indicate CBN may enhance pain-relieving effects when combined with other cannabinoids.
• Bone health – CBN might stimulate bone growth, which could be useful in treating fractures and osteoporosis (Whyte et al., 2009).

✅Market Trends: Why CBG and CBN Are Gaining Popularity in Europe

Increasing Consumer Awareness

With CBD now a mainstream wellness product, consumers are looking for next-generation cannabinoids with specialized benefits. CBG is being marketed as a "focus and energy" cannabinoid, while CBN is positioned as a natural sleep aid.

Innovation in Extraction and Isolation

Advancements in chromatography and biosynthesis have made it easier to extract CBG and CBN in higher quantities. European companies are investing in precision fermentation and hemp strain optimization to boost yields.

Regulatory Shifts

The Novel Food Regulation in the EU has pushed companies to seek authorization for cannabinoid products. While CBD faced hurdles, CBG and CBN are navigating these regulations more smoothly due to their non-psychoactive nature and lower public scrutiny.

Wellness and Medical Applications

• CBG-infused skincare (for anti-aging and acne)
• CBN sleep tinctures (as an alternative to melatonin)
• Combination products (CBG + CBD for enhanced effects)

✅Regulatory Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities

EU Novel Food Compliance

Both CBG and CBN fall under the EU’s Novel Food Catalogue, meaning they require safety assessments before commercial sale. However, some companies are leveraging full-spectrum hemp extracts to bypass strict isolation regulations.

Country-Specific Regulations

• Germany: Leading in medical cannabis, with potential for CBG/CBN approvals.
• Switzerland: Allows up to 1% THC, making CBN products more accessible.
• UK: Post-Brexit, the UK is developing its own cannabinoid framework.

Future Legal Developments

The European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA) is advocating for clearer guidelines, which could accelerate market growth by 2025.

✅Future Projections: What to Expect by 2025

Market Growth Estimates

• The European CBG market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 32% from 2023-2025 (Brightfield Group, 2023).
• CBN products could capture 15% of the sleep aid market by 2025.

Emerging Product Categories

• CBG energy drinks
• CBN-infused chocolates for relaxation
• Pharmaceutical-grade CBG for glaucoma and IBD

Investment and Research

More clinical trials are expected, particularly in Germany and the Netherlands, where cannabis research is well-funded.

2.       EU Cosmetic and Wellness Regulations

✅Overview of EU Cosmetic Regulations in 2025

The Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 – Still the Foundation

The EU Cosmetics Regulation remains the cornerstone of cosmetic safety, requiring:

• Safety assessments before market entry
• Mandatory CPNP (Cosmetic Products Notification Portal) registration
• Full ingredient transparency (including nanomaterials)

In 2025, updates focus on:

• Stricter enforcement of banned substances (e.g., microplastics, certain preservatives)
• Digital labeling requirements (QR codes for extended product info)

New Restrictions on Harmful Chemicals

The EU Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability (CSS) is phasing out:

• PFAS (forever chemicals) in cosmetics by 2025
• Endocrine disruptors (e.g., certain phthalates, parabens)

Sustainability & Eco-Design Requirements

The European Green Deal is pushing for:

• Biodegradable packaging (minimum recycled content rules)
• Carbon footprint labeling (similar to Nutri-Score for cosmetics)

✅The Rise of Clean Beauty & Natural Ingredients

What Is "Clean Beauty" in the EU?

Unlike the US, the EU has stricter pre-market bans, meaning many harmful ingredients are already prohibited. However, 2025 trends include:

• Vegan & cruelty-free certifications (mandatory Leaping Bunny compliance)
• Waterless cosmetics (to reduce environmental impact)
• Upcycled ingredients (food waste repurposed for skincare)

CBD, CBG, and CBN in Cosmetics

Cannabinoids are gaining traction in anti-aging, acne treatment, and soothing creams. However:

• CBD is permitted if derived from EU-approved hemp strains (<0.2% THC)
• CBG & CBN are under scrutiny as novel ingredients (EIHA, 2024)
• No medical claims allowed – only general wellness benefits

Example: A CBG-infused facial serum can claim "calming effects" but not "treats eczema."

✅Digital Compliance & AI in Cosmetic Safety

Digital Product Passports (DPP)

Starting in 2025, cosmetics may require:

• Blockchain-tracked supply chains
• QR codes linking to full ingredient sources

AI-Powered Safety Assessments

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is testing AI to:

• Predict skin irritation risks
• Detect counterfeit products (EFSA, 2024)

✅Challenges & Opportunities for Brands

Challenges

• Higher compliance costs for small brands
• Slow approval for innovative ingredients (e.g., biosynthetic cannabinoids)
• Greenwashing crackdowns (misleading eco-claims face fines)

Opportunities

• Growth in microbiome-friendly cosmetics (prebiotic skincare)
• Personalized beauty tech (AI skin analysis + tailored formulations)
• Expansion of CBD cosmetics (if THC limits remain stable)

✅Future Outlook: What’s Next After 2025?

• Stricter microplastic bans (including liquid microplastics in exfoliants)
• Harmonization with UK & Swiss regulations post-Brexit
• More clinical studies on cannabinoid skincare

3.       Top Use Cases for CBG/CBN in Formulations

✅Understanding CBG and CBN: Key Properties

CBG (Cannabigerol): The "Mother Cannabinoid"

• Non-psychoactive precursor to THC, CBD, and CBC
• Anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antibacterial properties
• Appetite stimulation (unlike CBD, which may suppress hunger) (Brierley et al., 2017)

CBN (Cannabinol): The "Sleep Cannabinoid"

• Mildly psychoactive (formed from THC degradation)
• Sedative effects, potentially aiding insomnia
• Pain modulation and bone growth stimulation 

✅Top Health & Wellness Formulations

A. CBG for Gut Health & Inflammation

Use Case: IBD (Crohn’s, Ulcerative Colitis) Support

• Mechanism: CBG reduces intestinal inflammation (Borrelli et al., 2013)
• Best Formulations:
• CBG oil drops (sublingual absorption)
• Delayed-release CBG capsules (targeted gut delivery)

B. CBN for Sleep & Relaxation

Use Case: Natural Sleep Aid (Alternative to Melatonin)

• Mechanism: CBN enhances GABA activity
• Best Formulations:
• CBN + CBD gummies (synergistic relaxation)
• CBN-infused chamomile tea (enhanced sleep blend)

C. CBG for Focus & Energy

Use Case: ADHD & Mental Clarity Support

• Mechanism: CBG may increase dopamine levels (Cascio et al., 2010)
• Best Formulations:
• CBG + caffeine functional beverages
• CBG nasal sprays (fast-acting cognitive boost)

✅Top Cosmetic & Skincare Applications

A. CBG for Anti-Aging & Acne

Use Case: Cannabinoid-Infused Serums & Creams

• Mechanism:
• Antioxidant effects combat free radicals (Atalay et al., 2020)
• Sebum regulation for acne-prone skin (Oláh et al., 2014)
• Best Formulations:
• CBG + hyaluronic acid facial serums
• CBG-infused clay masks (for oily skin)

B. CBN for Skin Repair & Psoriasis

Use Case: Eczema & Psoriasis Relief

• Mechanism:
• Anti-itch & anti-inflammatory effects 
• Best Formulations:
• CBN + colloidal oatmeal balms
• CBN-infused hydrocortisone alternatives

✅Nutraceutical & Pharmaceutical Innovations

A. CBG for Neurodegenerative Diseases

Use Case: Parkinson’s & Huntington’s Support

• Mechanism: Neuroprotection via CB1/CB2 modulation
• Best Formulations:
• CBG + lion’s mane mushroom capsules
• Sublingual CBG + THCv blends (for tremor reduction)

B. CBN for Chronic Pain & Arthritis

Use Case: Opioid-Sparing Pain Relief

• Mechanism: Enhances endogenous pain modulation
• Best Formulations:
• CBN + CBD transdermal patches
• CBN-infused turmeric softgels

✅Emerging Trends in CBG/CBN Formulations (2025 & Beyond)

A. Precision-Dosed Beverages

• CBG energy drinks (replacing synthetic stimulants)
• CBN relaxation tonics (alcohol-free nightcap alternatives)

B. Personalized Cannabinoid Blends

• DNA-based cannabinoid recommendations
• AI-formulated CBG/CBN ratios for individual needs

C. Regulatory Evolution

• EU Novel Food approvals for isolated CBG/CBN
• Pharmaceutical-grade CBN for insomnia treatments

4.       Finding Trusted EU Suppliers

✅The Importance of Sourcing from EU Suppliers in 2025

A. Regulatory Compliance is Non-Negotiable

The EU’s Novel Food Regulation requires pre-market authorization for isolated cannabinoids like CBG and CBN (EFSA, 2025). Non-compliant products risk being seized at customs or banned from sale.

Key certifications to look for:
✔ GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) – Ensures pharmaceutical-grade quality
✔ ISO 9001/13485 – For consistent production standards
✔ EU Organic Certification – Guarantees pesticide-free hemp

B. Superior Quality Control

EU suppliers adhere to strict agricultural and extraction standards, unlike some non-EU sources where regulations may be lax. For example, Hempire Gardens uses CO2 supercritical extraction, ensuring zero solvent residues in their CBG/CBN isolates.

C. Faster Logistics & Lower Costs

• No Brexit-related delays for intra-EU shipments
• Avoid 20-30% import tariffs on non-EU cannabinoids

✅How to Verify a Trusted EU Supplier in 2025

Step 1: Check for Essential Certifications

A reputable supplier should have:
✔ GMP/ISO Certification (for manufacturing)
✔ Novel Food Dossier Submission (mandatory for isolates)
✔ EU Organic/Fair Trade (if applicable)

Example: Hempire Gardens provides publicly accessible lab reports and holds GMP certification, making them a transparent and reliable choice.

Step 2: Demand Third-Party Lab Testing

Every batch should come with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) showing:

• Cannabinoid potency (HPLC tested)
• Contaminant screening (heavy metals, pesticides, microbes)
• Residual solvents (if ethanol extraction is used)

🚨 Red Flag: Suppliers who refuse to share COAs or only provide "generic" lab reports.

Step 3: Audit Their Supply Chain

Ask:

• Where is the hemp grown? (Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands have the highest standards)
• What extraction method is used? (CO2 > ethanol > hydrocarbons)
• Is the supply chain sustainable? (Carbon-neutral practices, biodegradable packaging)

Step 4: Order a Sample Before Committing

Test for:
✔ Purity (CBG isolate should be white and odorless)
✔ Solubility (does it blend well in carrier oils?)
✔ Consistency (no clumping or discoloration)

✅Top 10 Trusted EU CBG/CBN Suppliers (2025)

Supplier	Country	Specialty	Why They’re Trusted
Hempire Gardens	Germany	Premium CBG Isolate	GMP-certified, full transparency, CO2 extraction
Demnatec	Germany	CBG/CBN Distillates	Novel Food compliant, pharmaceutical-grade
Endoca	Denmark	Organic CBG	EU Organic certified, sustainable sourcing
Hanseatic	Germany	Broad-Spectrum CBG	ISO 9001, batch-specific COAs
MH medical	Switzerland	CBN Sleep Formulas	Clinically tested, GMP-certified
Panakeia	UK	Water-Soluble CBG	Novel Food approved, fast absorption
CannaHealth	Austria	Medical-Grade CBN	ISO 13485 (medical devices)
HempFlax	Netherlands	Industrial CBG Biomass	Large-scale, EU-compliant farming
Ecofibre	Poland	CBG-Rich Hemp	Carbon-neutral production
Cannovia	Spain	CBG/CBN Blends	Halal/Kosher options available

Why Hempire Gardens Stands Out:

• Batch-specific COAs for every product
• CO2-extracted, 99% pure isolates
• Direct farm-to-lab traceability

✅Red Flags: How to Spot Untrustworthy Suppliers

🚩 No COAs or vague lab reports
🚩 Prices significantly below market average (often indicates synthetic or cut product)
🚩 No Novel Food submission for isolates
🚩 Unverifiable customer reviews (check Trustpilot & Google reviews)

Case Study: In 2024, a Dutch company was fined €300,000 for selling "CBN oil" spiked with synthetic melatonin.

✅Future Trends in EU Sourcing (2026 Predictions)

• Blockchain verification for supply chain transparency
• More EU-based biosynthesis (lab-created cannabinoids)
• Stricter enforcement of Novel Food rules

5.       Certificates and Testing Requirements

✅Mandatory Certifications for CBG & CBN in 2025

A. Novel Food Authorization (EFSA Compliance)

Since January 2023, isolated cannabinoids (including CBG and CBN) require Novel Food approval from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) (EFSA, 2025).

Key requirements:
✔ Safety dossier submission (toxicology studies, stability tests)
✔ Proof of non-psychoactivity (THC <0.2%)
✔ Batch consistency verification

Example: Hempire Gardens has submitted a Novel Food dossier for its 99% pure CBG isolate, ensuring full compliance.

B. GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) Certification

Mandatory for:

• Pharmaceutical-grade cannabinoids
• Medical cannabis products

What GMP ensures:
✔ Sterile production facilities
✔ Documented quality control (QC) processes
✔ No cross-contamination risks

C. ISO 9001 & ISO 13485

• ISO 9001 = Quality management for manufacturing
• ISO 13485 = Required for medical device integration (e.g., CBN patches)

✅Required Lab Tests for CBG/CBN Products

A. Cannabinoid Potency Testing (HPLC)

• Verifies CBG/CBN % purity
• Checks THC compliance (<0.2%)

B. Contaminant Screening

Test	Acceptable Limits	Why It Matters
Heavy Metals (Pb, Cd, Hg, As)	<10 ppm total	Prevents toxicity
Pesticides	Below EU MRLs*	Ensures safety
Microbial (Yeast, Mold, E. coli)	<1000 CFU/g	Avoids infections
Residual Solvents	<5000 ppm (ethanol)	Prevents toxicity

 

C. Stability Testing (Shelf-Life Validation)

• Tests degradation over 12-24 months
• Required for Novel Food approval

Example: Hempire Gardens provides 36-month stability data for its CBG oil.

✅How to Verify a Certificate’s Authenticity

Step 1: Check the Issuing Lab

• EU-accredited labs only
• Avoid "in-house" lab reports (conflict of interest)

Step 2: Match Batch Numbers

• COA batch # must match product label
• No "generic" reports allowed

Step 3: Verify Digital Signatures

• QR codes linking to original reports
• Blockchain-verified COAs (emerging in 2025)

🚨 Red Flag: Suppliers who refuse to provide batch-specific COAs.

✅Case Study: Hempire Gardens Compliance Standards

Requirement	Hempire Gardens’ Compliance
Novel Food Status	Dossier submitted (pending approval)
GMP Certified	Yes (for pharmaceutical-grade CBG)
ISO 9001	Yes (manufacturing standards)
Third-Party Testing	Batch-specific COAs from Arge Canna
THC Compliance	<0.1% (below EU limit)

Why This Matters:

• Guarantees product safety
• Ensures regulatory compliance
• Reduces risk of customs seizures

✅Future Trends in EU Testing (2026 Predictions)

• Blockchain-tracked COAs (tamper-proof)
• AI-powered contaminant screening (faster detection)
• Stricter microbial limits (new EU pharmacopoeia rules)

6.       Importing Tips for 2025

✅Key EU Import Regulations for CBG & CBN (2025)

A. Novel Food Compliance is Mandatory

Since 2023, isolated CBG and CBN require EFSA authorization before entering the EU market (EFSA, 2025).

What You Need:
✔ Novel Food dossier (safety studies, stability data)
✔ Certificate of Analysis (COA) proving THC <0.2%
✔ GMP/ISO certification (if importing for medical use)

🚨 Non-compliant shipments will be destroyed at customs.

B. THC Limits (Strictly Enforced in 2025)

• Hemp-derived products must contain <0.2% THC (0.3% in Switzerland)
• Some EU countries (e.g., France, Italy) have stricter limits

C. Country-Specific Rules

Country	Special Requirements
Germany	Batch-specific COAs required
Netherlands	Controlled Substances Act applies
Switzerland	1% THC allowed (but not for export)

 

✅Step-by-Step Import Process (2025 Update)

Step 1: Verify Supplier Compliance

✔ Does your supplier have a Novel Food dossier?
✔ Are COAs from an EU-accredited lab?
✔ Is the THC level compliant?

Example: Hempire Gardens ships with pre-cleared customs documentation, reducing delays.

Step 2: Prepare Shipping Documents

Required for EU Customs:

• Commercial invoice (with HS code 1302.19.00 for hemp extracts)
• Certificate of Analysis (COA)
• Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
• Novel Food submission proof (if applicable)

Step 3: Choose the Right Shipping Method

Method	Best For	Risk Level
Air Freight	Small, high-value shipments	Moderate (strict checks)
Sea Freight	Bulk orders	High (longer transit = more inspections)
Courier (DHL, FedEx)	Samples & small batches	Low (if pre-cleared)

🚫 Avoid "door-to-door" hemp shipping services—many get seized.

Step 4: Clear EU Customs

• Declare as "Hemp Extract (Non-Narcotic)"
• Expect 3-5 day hold for lab verification (in some countries)
• Pay VAT & import duties (5-20% depending on country)

✅Top 5 Reasons CBG/CBN Shipments Get Seized (2025)

1)      No Novel Food documentation

2)      THC above 0.2%

3)      Fake or missing COAs

4)      Incorrect HS code

5)      Non-EU lab testing

Case Study: In 2024, a UK company lost €50,000 worth of CBN oil after French customs found 0.21% THC (DGCCRF Report).

✅How Hempire Gardens Ensures Smooth Imports

• Pre-Cleared Novel Food Documentation (dossier submitted)
• 0.01% THC Guarantee (below EU limit)
• EU-Based Lab Testing (no customs skepticism)
• DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) Shipping Option (no surprise fees)

✅Future Trends (2026 Predictions)

• Blockchain-tracked COAs (to prevent fraud)
• Stricter border checks (AI-powered scanners)
• Higher fines for non-compliance

7.       Conclusion

The European market for CBG and CBN is expanding rapidly, driven by growing consumer demand for specialized cannabinoid applications in cosmetics, wellness, and nutraceuticals. However, success in this industry requires strict adherence to EU regulations, careful supplier selection, and a deep understanding of compliance requirements.

Key Takeaways for Buyers

1)      Regulatory Compliance is Critical

o    Ensure suppliers have Novel Food dossiers submitted for isolated CBG/CBN.

o    Verify THC levels (<0.2%) and demand batch-specific COAs.

o    Look for GMP, ISO, and EU Organic certifications for quality assurance.

2)      Trusted Suppliers Make the Difference

o    Prioritize EU-based manufacturers (e.g., Hempire Gardens, Demnatec, Endoca) to avoid import hurdles.

o    Avoid suppliers with no third-party lab testing or suspiciously low prices.

3)      Future-Proof Your Business

o    Stay updated on 2025 regulatory changes, including Digital Product Passports (DPP) and sustainability requirements.

o    Watch for biosynthetic cannabinoids and blockchain-tracked supply chains as emerging trends.

Final Recommendation

For businesses looking to source high-quality, EU-compliant CBG and CBN wholesale, partnering with certified suppliers like Hempire Gardens ensures regulatory compliance, product safety, and smooth logistics.

By staying informed and prioritizing compliance, brands can capitalize on the booming European CBG/CBN market while minimizing legal and operational risks.

🚀 Ready to source EU-compliant CBG & CBN?
➡ Contact trusted suppliers today and request sample COAs before committing to bulk orders.

Here you can find cannabis products available in Europe.

 

 

 

 

 

References:

1. Borrelli, F. et al. (2013). Beneficial effect of the non-psychotropic plant cannabinoid cannabigerol on experimental inflammatory bowel disease. Biochemical Pharmacology.
2. Appendino, G. et al. (2008). Antibacterial cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa: A structure-activity study. Journal of Natural Products.
3. Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: Potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology.
4. Whyte, L. S. et al. (2009). The putative cannabinoid receptor GPR55 affects osteoclast function in vitro and bone mass in vivo. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
5. Atalay, S. et al. (2020). Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol. Antioxidants.
6. European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). (2025). Novel Food Catalogue Update on Cannabinoids.
7. European Industrial Hemp Association (EIHA). (2024). Position Paper on Minor Cannabinoids in the EU.
8. Brightfield Group. (2023). *European CBG Market Report: Growth Forecasts 2023-2025.*
9. EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 – Official guidelines on cosmetic safety and labeling.
10. EU Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability (CSS) – Restrictions on PFAS and endocrine disruptors in cosmetics.
11. DGCCRF (French Anti-Fraud) Report (2024) – Case study on seized non-compliant CBN shipments.