More Kids Are Accidentally Eating Pot Edibles and Suffering Severe Symptoms, New Study Warns

The number of kids who accidentally consume marijuana edibles is skyrocketing, according to a new study. Researchers analyzed pediatric exposures reported to the National Poison Data System and found the number of cases in kids under the age of six jumped from 207 in 2017 to 3,054 in 2021. That’s an increase of more than 1,300%.

Nearly all the accidental poisonings happened at home, with two- and three-year-olds accounting for most of them. About 23% of the patients ended up in the hospital, with a significant increase in severe symptoms and ICU admissions.

The authors warn that most edibles are packaged to look like common candies and cookies. Unlike with tobacco or alcohol, there are no nationwide laws regarding how these products are packaged. They recommend cannabis products be placed in opaque, child-resistant packaging with clear warning labels and the National Poison Center phone number.