A new product on the market may make parents double check the candy bowl. It's marijuana-flavored candy, and it already could be in stores near you. It may look like a normal lollipop or candy bar, but it tastes like pot.

Manufacturers have said that there is no THC-the illegal substance in pot-in the candy. The slogans, however, may lead kids to think that they are buying something that will have pot-like effects. For example, one candy's slogan is "Every lick is like taking a hit," which may tempt some kids to try it. Kids may want to see if the candy makes them feel different, or even high.

It's easier than you might think for kids to get their hands on pot-flavored candy. No laws prevent your child-or one of his friends-from going into a store and buying it or getting it online. If someone offers your child a piece of this candy, he may not realize what he is getting. Do you want your child to be introduced to the flavor of marijuana?

What's Being Done To Protect Your Children?

Politicians across the country are taking on the candy companies and the stores that sell pot-flavored candy. New York City lawmakers condemned sale of this candy. Legislators are talking about banning the candy, but today, the candy is legal and available to people of all ages.

What Can You Do?

Talk to the administrators and counselors at your child's school about the rules on marijuana-flavored candy. Many adults may not have heard of it, so be prepared to help them learn about the candy.

Despite the fact that marijuana-flavored candy does not contain illegal THC, some kids may begin to think that pot is acceptable or become accustomed to its taste. Tell your child that pot in any form is harmful. As you monitor your child's activities, remember to watch the candy she is eating. Set rules about marijuana use, and let your kids know what you expect from them.

Sources

Additional Resources:

• Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America, May 26, 2005. Coalition Leaders Take a Stand Against "Chronic Candy", last referenced 7/14/2005.
• CNN Money, December 16, 2004. Candy Goes to Pot: Report, last referenced 7/14/2005.
• Trentonian.com, June 23, 2005. High Anxieties: Legislator Takes a Swipe at Trenton Novelty Firm, last referenced 7/14/2005.
• NMC 17 News, May 10, 2005. Pot-Flavored Candy Outrages Police, Parents, last referenced 7/14/2005.
• Texas House of Representatives, June 29, 2005. Rep. Pena Files Legislation Banning Marijuana Candy, last referenced 7/14/2005.
• WCBS, March 10, 2005. Major Debate Over Marijuana-Flavored Candy, last referenced 7/14/2005.