CBD gummies have become one of the most popular ways to enjoy the potential benefits of cannabidiol, offering a tasty, convenient, and discreet method for daily wellness. CBD gummies can be a great addition to your routine if you’re hoping to sleep better, manage stress, or ease physical discomfort.
However, with so many options flooding the market, it’s easy to get caught out by misleading labels, poor-quality products, or just simple confusion. If you’re considering buying CBD gummies, here are ten common mistakes to avoid so you can make a smart and informed choice.
1. Not Checking the Type of CBD (Isolate, Broad-Spectrum, or Full-Spectrum)
Not all CBD is the same. There are three main types found in gummies:
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CBD isolate – Pure CBD, with no other cannabinoids.
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Broad-spectrum – Contains CBD and other compounds (but no THC).
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Full-spectrum – Contains CBD and trace amounts of THC (within legal limits).
Each type has different effects. Full-spectrum may offer greater benefits due to the entourage effect, where cannabinoids work better together—but it also contains tiny amounts of THC. Make sure you’re choosing the right one for your needs and preferences.
2. Ignoring Third-Party Lab Reports (Certificates of Analysis)
A reputable CBD brand will always provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) from an independent lab. This report confirms the product’s cannabinoid content and checks for harmful substances like heavy metals, pesticides, and solvents.
Consider it a red flag if a brand doesn’t share lab results—or they’re hard to find. Reading a COA may seem daunting, but look for:
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The amount of CBD per gummy.
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Confirmation that THC levels are compliant.
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A recent test date (within the last 6–12 months).
3. Buying Based on Price Alone
It’s tempting to grab the cheapest option, especially if you’re new to CBD—but low cost can often mean low quality. Cheap CBD gummies may:
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Contain very little actual CBD.
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Be made with poor-quality ingredients.
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Lack proper testing or safety standards.
That doesn’t mean the most expensive is always the best either. Aim for value: quality ingredients, transparency, and fair pricing.
4. Not Checking the CBD Dosage Per Gummy
Here’s a common trap: mistaking the total CBD in the bottle for the amount in each gummy.
For example, a 300mg jar might contain 30 gummies—that’s 10mg each. But if you need a higher dose (say, 25mg), you’d need more than one.
Always check:
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CBD per gummy
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Recommended serving
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How that fits your needs
Starting low and increasing slowly is generally advised for beginners.
5. Overlooking the Ingredients List
It’s easy to focus on the CBD, but don’t forget the rest of the gummy! Some are loaded with artificial colours, sugars, and preservatives. Others contain allergens or animal-based gelatine.
Look for:
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Natural flavourings and colourings
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Vegan or organic certifications (if important to you)
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Bonus ingredients like melatonin (for sleep) or turmeric (for inflammation)
6. Falling for Over-the-Top Marketing Claims
If a brand promises that their CBD gummies will “cure anxiety” or “guarantee 8 hours of sleep,” run the other way.
In the UK, CBD companies aren’t legally allowed to make medical claims. Instead, look for:
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Honest, transparent descriptions
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Emphasis on potential wellness support
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Customer reviews over big promises
A trustworthy brand respects your intelligence and complies with regulations.
7. Forgetting to Check THC Content
UK law states that CBD products must contain less than 0.2% THC, and it must not be detectable in the final product. Some full-spectrum gummies, especially from overseas brands, may exceed this.
Why it matters:
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Even trace THC can build up over time.
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It could affect drug tests.
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You don’t want to risk legal trouble—especially if you are travelling.
If you’re unsure, opt for broad-spectrum or CBD isolate gummies.
8. Choosing Style Over Substance
Bright colours, cool fonts, and slick branding might catch your eye, but that doesn’t mean the product is high quality. Sometimes the flashiest packaging hides the poorest ingredients.
Always dig deeper:
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Does the brand share lab reports?
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Are ingredients clearly listed?
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Do they provide customer support or education?
Good branding is fine—just make sure the product can back it up.
9. Not Researching the Brand’s Reputation
In the wellness world, reputation is everything. Before buying, check:
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Independent reviews (e.g. Trustpilot, Reddit)
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Social media presence and customer engagement
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How long they’ve been in business
You want a company that’s transparent, responsive, and has a track record of satisfied customers. Bonus points for brands that explain their sourcing and manufacturing processes.
10. Expecting Instant Results
CBD isn’t a magic pill. Many people expect dramatic results after just one gummy and are disappointed when that doesn’t happen.
The truth is:
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CBD builds up in the system over time.
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The effects are subtle and vary from person to person.
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Consistency is key: Take the same amount daily for a couple of weeks before judging its impact.
Being patient will help you get the most out of your experience.
Final Thoughts
Buying CBD gummies shouldn’t feel like a gamble, but for first-timers, the sheer variety can be overwhelming. By steering clear of these ten common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to finding a product that actually works for you.
Remember: Always do your research, start low and go slow, and look for brands that are honest, well-reviewed, and committed to quality.