Thai FDA Warns Against Buying Online Sweets After Three Cases of Adverse Reactions Suspected to Contain Cannabis

Key summary

The Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a public warning urging consumers to exercise caution when purchasing sweets via online channels. The alert follows reports of three individuals, including a 2-year-old child, experiencing adverse health effects after consuming snacks suspected of containing cannabis and lacking proper branding or manufacturer details. Dr. Suchapa Boonsri, Director-General of the FDA, highlighted that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in cannabis affects the nervous system and brain, potentially causing drowsiness, confusion, balance issues, rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, or unconsciousness, with children being particularly vulnerable to severe reactions even from small amounts. The FDA is actively investigating the specific products involved and promises strict legal action if violations are found. Consumers are advised to verify product safety by checking for a Thai FDA registration number (เลข อย.), Thai-language labels listing ingredients, manufacturer/importer details, and expiration dates before purchase. Verification can be done via the FDA website (www.fda.moph.go.th) or the MorPhrom app. The agency provided contact channels for reporting suspicious products, including hotline 1556, LINE @FDAThai, email 1556@fda.moph.go.th, and Facebook page FDAThai.