APVMA Reverses Course on Hemp Seed Oil for Pets, Industry Celebrates

In a landmark development for Australia’s hemp sector, the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) has clarified its regulatory stance on hemp‑derived animal nutrition products, effectively lifting previous ambiguities that halted the sale of hemp seed oil for pets. The APVMA’s decision follows a formal complaint submitted by the Australian Industrial Hemp Alliance (AIHA) and extensive industry advocacy.

Background: Confusion Hampers Industry Growth

In late 2024, the APVMA issued cease‑and‑desist notices to several hemp businesses marketing hemp seed oil supplements for companion animals, citing concerns over unregistered “veterinary chemical products.” This action surprised industry stakeholders, as hemp seed oil for human consumption has long been legal and widely used. The AIHA formally challenged the APVMA’s approach, arguing that hemp seed oil meeting Excluded Nutritional or Digestive (E.N.D.) criteria under the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Code Act 1994 should be exempt from registration.

APVMA’s Response: Clarity and Collaboration

On 1 May 2025, APVMA CEO Scott Hansen acknowledged these concerns in a response letter to AIHA President Charles Kovess. The APVMA confirmed that:

• No hemp‑ or cannabis‑based veterinary chemical products are currently registered in Australia.
  
• Certain hemp seed oil products may qualify as E.N.D. products and thus not require registration, but suppliers must determine their own compliance.
  
• The APVMA is enhancing internal guidance and transparency to ensure consistent regulatory decisions.
  
• Applicants can access the APVMA’s Pre‑Application Assistance service for tailored advice on registration requirements.
  

Industry Victory: Hemp Pet Media Release

Shortly after the APVMA’s letter, pet‑nutrition company HempPet issued a media release celebrating the shift. Since its 2020 launch, HempPet’s Full Spectrum HEMP DROPS—a prescription‑only cannabidiol (CBD)‑containing supplement for animals—has required veterinary oversight under existing regulations. The updated APVMA guidelines now explicitly eliminate prior restrictions on Australian‑grown hemp, reaffirming that pet‑safe hemp seed oil products can be prescribed by veterinarians without full VCP registration.

What This Means for Pet Owners and Businesses

• Veterinary Practices: Vets can continue prescribing hemp seed oil supplements for pets exhibiting conditions such as inflammation or anxiety, under oB‑label guidelines, with clear confidence in regulatory support.
  
• Pet Nutrition Brands: Local producers can innovate and expand hemp‑based offerings—such as oils, treats, and supplements—knowing the APVMA recognises E.N.D. exemptions.
  
• Pet Owners: Animal lovers gain reliable, locally produced hemp seed oil options for their pets, with products backed by Certificates of Analysis ensuring quality and safety.
  

Next Steps: Formal Applications and Ongoing Dialogue

The APVMA encourages any company seeking to register new hemp‑based veterinary products to utilise its Pre‑Application Assistance service to navigate safety and efficacy requirements. Meanwhile, the AIHA and HempPet plan further engagement with the APVMA to refine the roadmap for emerging hemp‑derived inputs in animal health.

Sources & Further Reading

• APVMA letter to AIHA President (1 May 2025)
  
• HempPet Media Release: “APVMA Updates Stance on Hemp‑Based Animal Products” (6 May 2025)
  
• Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Code Act 1994 (Cth): E.N.D. exemption criteria, Section 5 (https://www.legislation.gov.au/Series/C2004A04723)
  
• APVMA Pre‑Application Assistance information (https://www.apvma.gov.au/registrations-and-permits/get-assistance/pre-application-assistance)