As marijuana becomes legal in more states, cannabis-infused products are becoming increasingly common in homes across the country. Among the most concerning of these products are THC-infused edibles—such as gummies, chocolates, cookies, and candies—which often look nearly identical to ordinary treats.
For young children, especially those under the age of five, this resemblance poses a serious and growing risk.
A Hidden Danger in Plain Sight
Cannabis edibles are designed to be appealing to adults, but their bright colors, sweet flavors, and familiar shapes can be especially enticing to children. Unlike smoking or vaping products, edibles require no specialized equipment and are often stored alongside everyday food item, making accidental exposure more likely.
Recent incidents underscore the severity of this risk. Middle and junior high students in several states have been hospitalized after sharing THC-infused candy at school, mistaking it for regular sweets or underestimating its potency. These cases reflect a broader national trend.
According to national data, accidental cannabis exposures among children ages five and under increased fifteenfold between 2017 and 2021, closely tracking the rapid expansion of legalized recreational cannabis.
Why Young Children Are Especially Vulnerable
Children’s bodies process THC very differently than adults’. Even small amounts can cause significant effects because of their lower body weight and developing nervous systems. Unlike adults, children also cannot communicate symptoms clearly, which can delay recognition and treatment.
Most accidental exposures occur in the home, often when cannabis products are left unlocked, improperly stored, or packaged in a way that resembles candy or snacks. Compounding the issue, cannabis edibles are not subject to consistent federal packaging and labeling regulations in the same way as tobacco or alcohol, leading to wide variation in safety standards.
Signs and Symptoms of Cannabis Exposure in Children
Symptoms of THC exposure in children can range from mild to severe and may include:
- Excessive sleepiness or lethargy
- Slurred speech
- Poor coordination or difficulty walking
- Confusion or agitation
- Breathing difficulties
- Seizures
- Acute psychosis in rare cases
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to contact a pediatrician or Poison Control immediately if cannabis exposure is suspected. Emergency care should be sought right away if symptoms are severe or worsening.
Safe Storage Protects Children
Safe storage is one of the most effective ways to prevent accidental cannabis exposure among children. As cannabis products become more common, taking proactive steps at home can save lives and prevent medical emergencies.
Cannabis edibles and other THC products should be:
- Stored in locked containers or lockboxes
- Kept out of sight and out of reach of children
- Stored separately from food, snacks, and candy
- Left in original packaging with clear labels
- Never consumed in front of children or described as “candy”
If cannabis is no longer needed, it should be disposed of properly according to local guidelines rather than thrown into household trash where children can access it.
To learn more, visit Children seeking candy are finding adults’ weed-infused edibles.
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