Parents are being urged to be extra cautious about the snacks their children consume, as a concerning trend of “cannabis jelly” and other cannabis-infused treats gaining popularity poses potential fatal dangers. The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) recently issued a Facebook post, citing information from the Royal College of Paediatricians of Thailand, emphasizing the harmful impact of cannabis on young individuals.
According to the paediatrician study, individuals under the age of 20 should avoid consuming cannabis due to its tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content, which can adversely affect their developing brains. The study highlighted the increased risk of mental and emotional issues, such as schizophrenia, associated with cannabis use. Additionally, both short-term and long-term health effects were noted, including severe allergic reactions, myocardial infarction, cardiac arrhythmia, and stroke.
Further side effects of cannabis ingestion include disorientation, nausea, hallucinations, epilepsy, muscle twitching, high blood pressure, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, heart attacks, stomachaches, and vomiting.
While Thailand has legalized cannabis and hemp as cash crops, it remains illegal to use or sell these products to individuals under the age of 20. Pregnant and nursing mothers are also prohibited from consuming cannabis products. Violators of these regulations may face penalties of up to one year in prison and/or a fine of 20,000 baht.
Amid the evolving landscape of cannabis legalization, it is crucial for parents to remain vigilant and educate their children about the potential dangers associated with cannabis-infused snacks. Monitoring the types of edibles their children have access to can help prevent unintended consequences and safeguard their well-being.
