Cannabis-laced Haribo gummies have sent consumers to the hospital after unknowingly consuming contaminated candy marketed for all ages, including children.
Key Takeaways
- Haribo has recalled 8,000 bags of Happy Cola F!ZZ gummies in the Netherlands after testing confirmed cannabis contamination
- Both adults and children reported feeling dizzy and unwell after consuming the affected product
- The contamination is limited to a specific batch with a best before date of January 2026, distributed only in the Netherlands
- Dutch authorities and police are investigating the source of contamination, with at least three packs confirmed to be tainted
- Consumers are urged to return affected products for a refund and not consume them
Contaminated Candy Causes Health Issues
Popular candy manufacturer Haribo has issued an urgent recall of its Happy Cola F!ZZ gummies after multiple Dutch consumers experienced unexpected side effects. The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) confirmed the presence of cannabis in the candy after investigating reports of illness. “Samples were taken and cannabis was found in them,” stated the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA).
The contamination has resulted in both adults and children reporting dizziness and feeling unwell after consuming what they believed were regular cola-flavored candies. This alarming development has prompted swift action from Haribo, which has recalled approximately 8,000 bags from Dutch retailers. The affected products specifically have a best before date of January 2026, making them easily identifiable for concerned consumers.
Investigation Underway
Dutch police have joined food safety officials in investigating how the popular candy became contaminated with cannabis. So far, authorities have confirmed at least three packs contain the illegal substance, though the full extent of contamination remains unknown. A Haribo spokesman described it as a “live issue” and stated the company is working to “establish the facts around the contamination.”
“The safety of our consumers is our highest priority and Haribo takes this incident very seriously, which is why a recall has been issued in the Netherlands,” Haribo stated.
This incident raises serious concerns about quality control and potential sabotage in the food supply chain. The company has emphasized that no other Haribo products have been compromised, and the contamination appears limited to this specific batch of Happy Cola F!ZZ distributed exclusively in the Netherlands. The exact cause of contamination remains undetermined pending the outcome of the investigation.
Consumer Safety Precautions
Dutch authorities have issued clear guidance for anyone who may have purchased the affected products. “Do not eat the sweets,” warned the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA). This straightforward directive underscores the potential health risks associated with unintentional cannabis consumption, particularly for children who might be attracted to the colorful, sweet candies.
Haribo has established a return process for consumers who have purchased the contaminated products. Customers are advised to check their Haribo purchases and return any affected packages to the manufacturer for a full refund. This incident follows a separate recall last year when Haribo’s Tangfastics were pulled from Canadian shelves due to wood contamination, though the current situation poses potentially more serious health consequences.
The contamination of a popular children’s candy with a controlled substance represents a troubling development in food safety. President Trump’s administration has consistently advocated for stronger regulatory oversight of imported food products, and this incident highlights the ongoing challenges in maintaining the integrity of the global food supply chain.
