A recent incident at Buffalo’s William J. Grabiarz School of Excellence, where a teacher mistakenly gave THC-laced gummies to students, has spotlighted the dangers of edibles mimicking popular candies.

This week’s Wednesday Weigh-In asked: “What’s your biggest concern about THC edibles that look like popular snacks?” With over 100 responses, your feedback reveals deep concerns about child safety, legal issues, and potency. Let’s unpack the results and explore the risks.

Poll results: Your concerns

• 🚸 Kids might eat them by mistake: 74%

• 🧑‍⚖️ They break trademark/copyright laws: 10%

• 💥 Super high THC per serving: 10%

• 🤷 Not concerned—they’re clearly labeled: 6%

The overwhelming concern (74%) is accidental consumption by children. “Kids won’t check labels and assume it’s safe candy,” one reader wrote. Another noted, “The packaging mimics brands like Sour Patch Kids, which is dangerous.” However, 6% believe clear labeling mitigates risks, highlighting a divide in perspectives.

Is THC Dangerous for Kids?

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis, poses serious risks to children due to their developing brains and lower body weight, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Symptoms of THC ingestion in kids can include confusion, hallucinations, vomiting, or even unconsciousness. In the Buffalo incident, gummies contained 500 mg of THC — far exceeding the typical adult dose of 10–20 mg. “I was like, the scaredest kid in the world,” an 11-year-old student said.

In 2024, the Upstate New York Poison Center reported approximately 200 children under 6 visited emergency rooms due to cannabis exposure, often from edibles. Severe cases may require hospitalization, though fatalities are rare. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that repeated exposure could impair long-term cognitive development in children.

How Often Are Edibles Mistaken by Kids?

Accidental consumption is a growing issue. The FDA reported over 300 adverse events involving delta-8 THC products from 2021 to 2023, with nearly half requiring hospitalization and two-thirds involving edibles like gummies. “Inadequate or confusing labeling” significantly contributes to these incidents, the agency notes. Packaging resembling popular candies heightens the risk, as seen in the Buffalo case.

Beyond Kids: Risks for Adults

While child safety dominates concerns, THC edibles also pose risks for adults, especially frequent or high-dose users. Key issues include:

• Mental Health Effects: High-potency THC is linked to increased risks of anxiety, depression, and psychosis, particularly in those with a mental health history. A 2019 study found daily use of high-THC cannabis was associated with a five-fold increase in psychotic disorders. Source: Di Forti et al., The Lancet Psychiatry.

• Cognitive Impairment: Frequent THC use, especially in younger adults, can impair memory, attention, and learning. A 2012 study showed significant IQ declines in persistent users. Source: Meier et al., PubMed.

• Impaired Driving: THC impairs motor coordination and reaction time, increasing crash risks. Marijuana is the second most common substance found in fatal crashes. Source: CDC, 2024.

• Cannabis Use Disorder: About 1 in 10 users develop addiction, with higher rates among daily users. Source: NIDA, 2024.

Regulatory Push

The FDA and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) are cracking down, issuing warnings to companies like Hippy Mood and Shamrockshrooms.com for selling lookalike edibles. New York’s strict testing for licensed cannabis products aims to reduce risks, but illicit markets remain a challenge. One reader warned, “Unregulated products could contain unknown dangers.”

Many unregulated edibles skip lab testing, potentially containing contaminants like pesticides, mold, or heavy metals. A 2022 study found over half of 89 cannabis products were mislabeled or contaminated. Source: JAMA Network Open. The FDA also warns about toxic byproducts in delta-8 THC products.

The Debate: Safety vs. Responsibility

Your responses highlight a clear concern: THC edibles mimicking candies threaten kids, with 74% citing accidental consumption as the top issue. Rising ER visits underscore the urgency for stricter packaging rules and better education. Yet, 6% argue that clear labeling is enough, emphasizing personal responsibility. As regulators tighten oversight, the balance between safety and access remains contentious.

What’s your stance? Share your thoughts by clicking on the button below.

(Keep it respectful; personal attacks or ads will be removed.)

Stay tuned for next Wednesday’s Weigh-In! Until then, stay safe and informed with FSN Daily!

All the best,
Jonan Pilet, Newsletter Editor

Weekend Poll

Past Week’s Recalls

U.S.-Based Recalls:

• Recall of Gerber teething sticks renewed because of reports of product still being sold

• New York company recalls enoki mushrooms after testing showed Listeria contamination

• Company recalls soybean paste because of undeclared wheat

• Company recalls cookies because of consumer complaints about rancid taste

• USDA issues public health alert for soups sold under Campbell’s and other brand names

• Grain Millers recalls rolled oats because of potential plastic contamination

• Plant-based Butter Chik’n Bites recalled in Canada because of undeclared milk and reported reaction

Canada-Based Recalls:

• Shrimp Fried Rice recalled in Canada because of undeclared milk

• Shredded Coconut recalled in Canada because of Salmonella contamination and reported illnesses

• Fiorfiore spaghetti and linguine recalled in Canada because of insects

• SupHerb Farms IQF Cilantro Large recalled in Canada because of pieces of wood

• Various brands of soup and sauce recalled in Canada because of pieces of wood

• Canadian officials issue recall of steaks sold at Walmart because of wood contamination

• Company recalls black forest ham sandwiches because of Listeria contamination

• More recalls…

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