Halloween and the Alleged Danger of Marijuana “Treats”

Every Halloween, teachers, parents and authorities warn of the potential dangers hidden in candy and treats. Trick-or-treating requires every parent to check to make sure that “treats” are safe for consumption. This Halloween, the Denver police department took extra precautions to warn parents of the potential danger of edibles this Halloween season. According to a public service video announcement, trick-or-treating children should be wary of the potential of marijuana edibles. With more edibles mimicking commonly-consumed candies, like gummy bears, chocolates or Jolly Ranchers, parents were urged to double check Halloween goodies to be sure they aren’t infused with marijuana.

One problem for parents and authorities is that it can be difficult to tell the difference between marijuana edibles and regular candies. In the event that a candy is not clearly marked or packaged, authorities advised parents to simply throw the candy away. For marijuana advocates, the fear of edibles is unfounded. it’s extremely unlikely that anyone would hand out marijuana edibles to children. Despite the fears, there have been no reported cases of marijuana-laced handouts. The Halloween public service announcement echoed common fears about how the legalization of edible marijuana is a danger to children.

According to health care professionals, concerned policymakers and parents, one problem with edibles is that they look too much like regular food. Edible products could be improperly distributed or consumed by children on accident, creating the possibility of overdose and injury. Recreational marijuana has been on sale in Colorado since January. Since legalization, there have been several reports of accidental ingestion by both children and adults. There have also been two deaths related to the consumption of edibles.

For this reason, local authorities in Colorado are seeking to crack down on the production, packaging, distribution and sale of edibles.

Edibles can range from candy-like products to soda, chocolate and baked goods. Many critics are concerned that products look too similar to non-marijuana goods. Further, those who choose to ingest edibles may not understand the risks or dosages. They can often be more potent than a consumer realizes.

Our Orange County marijuana attorneys are aware of the legal changes developing in Colorado and nationwide related to edibles and marijuana sales. Both consumers and distributors should be aware of local marijuana laws pertaining to their rights and obligations.

Under the new rules in Colorado, manufacturers have been required to reduce the amount of THC in a single serving. They must also clearly mark packaging to ensure consumers are informed.

Beginning in February, packages will be child-proofed and doubled-wrapped in plastic and foil. Though the new laws are more restrictive, many officials are concerned they do not go far enough to protect consumers, especially children. One proposal is to ban edibles entirely. But pro-marijuana advocates point out this stems from fear rooted in misunderstanding about the products.

While parents should be mindful about what is in their child’s trick-or-treat bag, It’s very unlikely they have cause for any great concern regarding marijuana edibles.

The Los Angeles CANNABIS LAW Group represents growers, dispensaries, collectives, patients and those facing marijuana charges. Call us at 949-375-4734.

More Blog Entries:
Budding Industry for Labs Testing Marijuana, December 27, 2013, Los Angeles Marijuana Lawyer Blog

A Pursuit, a Car Crash, and an Exposed Grow Operation, August 31, 2014, Los Angeles Marijuana Lawyer Blog