22/07/2022 - Cannabis edibles are more harmful than you think!

Edibles are foods containing cannabis. They can be homemade, such as brownies, cakes or bought items like sweets, chocolate, gummies or even yoghurts. Edibles have also been seen in drink format known as THC Lean.

National intelligence suggests the use of edibles by young people has been increasing and that bought types of edibles are becoming more popular and can often go ‘undetected’ as the packaging closely mirrors well-known brands such as Haribo, Nerds or Doritos and deliberately targets young people.

The campaign features videos – ‘Easy to digest advice about edibles’ and ‘Why do edibles hit you harder than smoking?’ warning of the dangers of cannabis edibles and harm reduction messages advising young people of what actions they should take if they do decide to take them, which will be promoted on social media channels throughout the summer holidays.

Sally Cartwright, Director of Public Health, said: “We need young people to understand that edibles are more harmful than they think. They may appear innocent from their packaging but in reality they present a high risk for those who take them, and others who may accidentally consume them without knowing what they are.

“These products have no quality control process. It can be difficult to know the strength and exact contents of edibles. Some may be injected with other dangerous substances and chemicals, so with every bite they could be taking a very big risk.

“The effect of consuming edibles takes longer than smoking cannabis. Young people may think that it hasn’t worked and consume more resulting in a higher risk of overdosing. Also, the effects can be more intense and take even longer to wear off.”

There are many health risks, associated with cannabis including increased heart rate and blood pressure, panic attacks, psychosis, hallucinations, confusion and paranoia and if regularly used, it can have a negative impact on your mental health.

Cannabis is illegal and the maximum sentence for possession is five years or 14 years for supplying it, even to friends, or an unlimited fine or both.

Here’s how adults can help keep children safe:

• speak to young people about edibles so they are aware of the dangers of consuming cannabis edibles
• monitor food packaging/wrappers, looking for images of cannabis leaves or wording such as CBD or THC suggesting the items are cannabis oil infused
• if you see any social media adverts promoting these items, please report it to the police or crime stoppers
• if you believe a young person may have consumed edibles and is experiencing a reaction, don’t delay, call an ambulance

For more information visit the government’s drug advice website www.talktofrank.com or call the helpline on (0300 123 6600). It also offers advice for parents on how to talk about drugs with their children. Or contact ResoLUTiONs which provides support for young people aged 25 and under, to help them understand the risks and harm of taking drugs and can provide support for those who are affected by a family member’s use, visit https://www.changegrowlive.org/advice-info/under-21-advice/edibles or https://www.changegrowlive.org/advice-info/alcohol-drugs