The Fayette County Sheriff's Office has issued a warning to parents about the increasing presence of THC-infused products resembling popular candy and snack brands being found in the community. A recent traffic stop led to the recovery of a large number of these products, including knockoffs of Skittles, Doritos, Oreos, Starburst, and Chips Ahoy, according to a report by WSB-TV. These items, with their bright colors and altered logos, may be easily mistaken by children for the genuine candies and snacks they are designed to imitate.
Authorities expressed concern over the potential for children to accidentally consume these THC-infused products and advised parents to be vigilant. "Your children may also be bringing these disguised drugs home to hide them from the adults in their lives," the sheriff's office stated, as relayed by WSB-TV. The office suggested that parents should educate both themselves and their children on how to differentiate between regular candy and THC-infused products.
In alignment with concerns highlighted by the Fayette County Sheriff's Office, a recent Pediatrics journal report noted a worrying increase in cannabis-related poisonings among children under six, a staggering 1,375% from 2017 to 2021. One key reason attributed to this spike is the availability of edibles made to look like kid-friendly treats, according to FOX 5 Atlanta. Symptoms of THC ingestion in children may include drowsiness, uncoordinated movement, confusion, nausea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, anxiety, and, in severe cases, difficulty breathing.
For cases where a child has accidentally ingested THC edibles, parents are urged to take immediate action by staying calm, checking the packaging to identify the product and amount consumed, and watching for symptoms," as detailed by FOX 5 Atlanta. In cases of severe symptoms or if a child becomes unresponsive, seeking emergency medical help is critical. The importance of prompt medical attention in these situations is also emphasized by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, given that even small amounts of THC can significantly affect children due to their lower body weight and developing brains.
The sheriff's office reiterates that the response to such incidents should involve calling the national Poison Control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 for expert advice, and that educating children to always consult an adult before consuming any unfamiliar candy or snack can further prevent accidental ingestions. Federal regulators have begun to clamp down on dispensaries selling marijuana products that appeal to children, but local authorities stress that intervention starts at home through education and awareness.
