Health Canada has issued a warning about the danger of storing cannabis edibles where children can find them.
The agency said “several” children have ended up in hospital after accidentally eating illegal cannabis products that resembled candy or other food.
Those kids suffered “serious harm” as a consequence of ingesting drugs, according to Health Canada.
The cannabis had been stored in fridges or freezers and without child-resistant packaging.
“Obtaining cannabis from illegal sources can carry potential health risks as the products are not regulated and do not meet the strict safety and quality controls as set out in the Cannabis Act and its Regulations,” Health Canada explained.
“These controls address issues such as the maximum amount of THC, product ingredients, packaging, labelling, production, testing, and sale, including appeal to young persons.”
The agency urged users to buy their products only from legal retailers.
Canada legalized recreational use of cannabis in October 2018, but food and drinks containing the drug only became available late last year.
Pot-infused gummies, chocolates and beverages are legal but must be sold by retailers authorized by provincial and territorial governments.
Health Canada said users should consider storing their drugs in a locked drawer or box and to always separate them from food and drink.
“Even adults may be unable to spot the difference between a regular candy and an edible, or a cookie with or without cannabis,” the agency explained.
“By properly storing and labelling cannabis products, there is less risk of accidental consumption.”
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