Understanding Consumer Confusion About Names for Hemp-Based Oils

Study Date: February 2025

Objective

The main goal of this study was to investigate why consumers are often confused by the various names used to describe hemp-based oils. The researchers aimed to identify the specific terms that cause the most confusion and to suggest ways to make product labeling clearer and more understandable.

Results

The study found that many consumers are confused by the different names used for hemp-based oils, such as “CBD oil,” “hemp oil,” and “hemp seed oil.” This confusion often leads to misunderstandings about the products’ ingredients, uses, and benefits. The findings suggest that clearer labeling and better consumer education could help reduce this confusion.

Details

Background

Hemp-based oils have gained popularity for their potential health benefits, but the variety of names used to describe these products can be confusing. Terms like “CBD oil,” “hemp oil,” and “hemp seed oil” are often used interchangeably, even though they refer to different products with distinct properties and uses. This study aimed to understand the extent of consumer confusion and identify ways to improve product labeling.

What are Hemp-Based Oils?

Hemp-based oils are derived from the hemp plant, a variety of Cannabis sativa. These oils can contain different compounds depending on how they are extracted and processed. The most common types of hemp-based oils include:

• CBD Oil: Contains cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound known for its potential therapeutic effects.
• Hemp Oil: Often used to refer to CBD oil, but can also be a general term for oils extracted from the hemp plant.
• Hemp Seed Oil: Extracted from the hemp plant’s seeds and contains little to no CBD. It is commonly used in cooking and skincare products.

Methodology

The researchers conducted a survey to assess consumer understanding of different hemp-based oil names. The study involved several key steps:

1. Survey Design: A questionnaire was developed to measure consumers’ knowledge and perceptions of various hemp-based oil names. The survey included questions about product ingredients, uses, and perceived benefits.
2. Participant Recruitment: Participants were recruited from diverse demographic backgrounds to ensure a representative sample. The survey was distributed online to reach a broad audience.
3. Data Analysis: The survey responses were analyzed to identify patterns of confusion and misunderstandings. The researchers also examined the impact of demographic factors, such as age and education level, on consumer understanding.

Key Findings

• High Levels of Confusion: The survey revealed that a significant number of consumers are confused by the different names used for hemp-based oils. Many respondents could not accurately differentiate between CBD oil, hemp oil, and hemp seed oil.
• Misunderstandings About Ingredients: A large proportion of participants incorrectly believed that all hemp-based oils contain CBD. This misunderstanding can lead to incorrect product choices and unmet expectations.
• Perceived Benefits: Consumers often attributed similar benefits to all types of hemp-based oils, regardless of their actual ingredients. This highlights the need for clearer communication about the specific properties and uses of each product.
• Demographic Influences: The study found that younger consumers and those with higher education levels were generally better at distinguishing between different hemp-based oil names. However, confusion was still prevalent across all demographic groups.

Real-Life Impact

The findings of this study have important implications for consumers and manufacturers of hemp-based oils. Clear labeling and better consumer education could help reduce confusion and ensure consumers make informed choices. For example, manufacturers could use standardized terms and provide detailed ingredient lists on product labels to help consumers understand what they are buying.

Recommendations for Clearer Labeling

Based on the study’s findings, the researchers made several recommendations to improve product labeling and reduce consumer confusion:

1. Standardized Terminology: Use consistent and standardized terms for different types of hemp-based oils. For example, reserve the term “CBD oil” exclusively for products that contain cannabidiol.
2. Detailed Ingredient Lists: Provide clear and detailed ingredient lists on product labels, highlighting the presence or absence of CBD and other key compounds.
3. Educational Campaigns: Implement educational campaigns to inform consumers about the differences between various hemp-based oils and their specific uses and benefits.
4. Visual Aids: Use visual aids, such as icons or diagrams, on product labels to help consumers quickly understand the key ingredients and intended uses.

Future Research Directions

While the results are promising, further research is needed to explore the effectiveness of different labeling strategies in reducing consumer confusion. Future studies should also investigate the impact of educational campaigns on consumer understanding and behavior. Additionally, research should explore the role of regulatory frameworks in standardizing product labeling for hemp-based oils.

Complete Study Here

For those interested in delving deeper into the details of this study, you can access the full research article here. We encourage you to read the complete study to explore the comprehensive findings and methodologies used by the researchers.