Cannabis-infused Haribo candy recalled by Dutch authorities - Netherlands: Haribo cannabis-laced candy recall
Haribo Issues Urgent Recall of "Happy Cola" Gummies in Netherlands Due to Presence of Cannabis
The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) has announced the recall of Haribo's "Happy Cola" F!ZZ gummies following the discovery of cannabis in certain batches. This action was taken after several consumers, including children, reported experiencing health issues such as dizziness after consuming the sweets.
In a statement released on Thursday, the NVWA confirmed that cannabis was found in three packets of the contaminated product. In light of this discovery, a full recall has been initiated as a precautionary measure, even though the substance was found in only a small percentage of the affected products.
The affected packets are 1kg bags of "Happy Cola F!ZZ" with a use-by date of January 2026 and production code L341-4002307906. All affected bags have been removed from Dutch shelves, with Haribo offering full refunds for returned products.
Local authorities are now investigating the source of the contamination. Haribo, in close cooperation with the police, is actively working to determine the cause of the cannabis presence in the gummies. The company emphasizes the importance it places on consumer safety and considers the incident serious.
The Dutch police are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the contamination. It is not yet clear whether the cannabis was introduced during the manufacturing process or whether it was the result of tampering or another source.
At present, the recall is limited to the Netherlands, and there have been no reported cases of contamination in other countries, including the United States. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and advise parents and retailers to check their products against the recall notice.
Haribo has urged consumers not to consume these sweets until the investigation is completed and the issue is fully resolved. The company is prioritizing consumer safety and is committed to addressing this issue promptly and transparently.
- The Commission, in response to the unexpected presence of cannabis in food products, may consider adopting a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers and consumers from risks related to exposure to carcinogens in food-and-drink, emphasizing the importance of health-and-wellness and science in food production.
- Given the health issues reported by consumers following the contamination of Haribo's "Happy Cola" gummies, the government may urge the food industry to adopt stricter safety measures for the prevention of foreign substances in food-and-drink, seeking guidance from science and advocating for lifestyle choices promoting overall health and well-being.
