Cannabis edibles have been consumed by humans for thousands of years. (Photo 271745338 © Nyaaka5 | Dreamstime.com)

By Derek Cornet

consumer warning

Illegal cannabis edibles resulting in rise in ER visits: Health Canada

May 15, 2023 | 7:00 AM

Health Canada has released an advisory about the risk of serious harm if children accidentally consume edible cannabis.

“Health Canada is aware of children being hospitalized, particularly after consuming products that are illegal and unregulated,” the advisory stated.

“Hospitals have seen an increase in visits to the emergency room and poison centres have seen an increase in calls. Poisonings can be life-threatening, sometimes resulting in coma, being put on a ventilator, or in rare cases, even death. While there have been no fatal cases reported in Canada to date, Health Canada is aware of international cases of paediatric cannabis poisoning leading to death.”

It notes the implicated products are illegal edibles with flashy packaging, pictures, catchy names, strange THC symbols or that mimic popular name brands. They should not be consumed and should be reported to local law enforcement.

“Illegal edible cannabis products may be packaged to look like popular brands of candies, snacks or other food products that are typically sold at grocery stores, gas stations and corner stores,” the advisory states. “These products are illegal and prohibited under the Cannabis Act and its Regulations.”

new study

Cannabis edges out alcohol as the most common impairing substance: driver study

Jun 27, 2024

gender equity

Awareness is the first step towards inclusive leadership in cannabis

May 31, 2024

Canadian Potcast

S2/E6 - Meet our new host: Ross Rebagliati

May 27, 2024

When purchasing cannabis, the federal government directs Canadians to purchase only legal and regulated cannabis products in plain packaging with child-resistant features, and only from provincially-authorized retailers. If someone possesses cannabis, it should be stored securely away from young people and pets.

A sample of illegal cannabis edibles identified by Health Canada. (Health Canada)

“Be careful with edible cannabis, which can be mistaken for regular food or drink, especially when it is removed from its original packaging,” the advisory states. “Consider storing cannabis products in a locked drawer or box, and separate from regular food or drinks.”

The packaging and labelling on cannabis products are designed to minimize harms from cannabis. Requirements include plain packaging and labelling, displaying a health warning message, and providing information about how much THC and CBD are in the cannabis product.

The advisory from Health Canada about illegal cannabis edibles can be found online here.

—

info@westernbuzz.ca