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Hemp is gaining attention as a versatile crop, especially as livestock feed, following the legal framework established by the 2018 Farm Bill. However, there are concerns about the safety of hemp-derived products, particularly cannabidiol (CBD), in animal feed.
Recent animal studies have highlighted significant risks, particularly liver toxicity and reproductive toxicity. Studies in rats have shown that exposure to CBD can lead to decreased testicular size and function in male offspring. Although these findings primarily concern rodents, the effects on livestock raise questions about health effects across different species.
“What we saw was an early sign of liver toxicity…and from a rat study where male offspring of rats given a certain amount of CBD had significantly reduced testicular size and function. There is also data related to male reproductive toxicity,'' said Norman Birenbaum, senior public health advisor at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER), during a speech at the USDA Annual Meeting. .
Companion animals such as dogs and cats are also at risk. Diagnosis of potential CBD-related problems in these small animals is complex, making it difficult for veterinarians to identify toxicity. This uncertainty complicates decisions for pet owners considering hemp-based products for their animals.
Despite the concerns, the hemp industry has made progress with products achieving “Generally Recognized as Safe” (GRAS) status. For example, hemp seed oil and meal protein are now incorporated into layer hens' diets, and these contain minimal CBD and THC. These feeds offer an opportunity for nutritional fortification given their beneficial fatty acid profile.
However, he said the issue of cannabinoid residue in dairy products remains. Cannabinoids such as THC and CBD can accumulate in fatty tissue, potentially impacting the safety of milk. Because dairy cows produce milk for human consumption, especially infants, cannabinoid residues pose safety concerns.
He said the regulatory pathway for hemp-based animal feed remains slow but significant as research progresses. Although some products have been approved, the industry must proceed carefully to ensure food safety standards are maintained, he said.
Sabrina Halverson
National Correspondent / AgNet Media, Inc.
Sabrina Halverson is an award-winning journalist, broadcaster, and speaker specializing in agriculture. She primarily reports on legal issues and hosts The AgNet News Hour and The AgNet Weekly podcast. Sabrina is from California's agricultural Central Valley.
