Belgian authorities have recalled several batches of Haribo sweets after a cannabis-related incident involving a different brand of Dutch gummies created confusion and concern across retail and consumer channels. The recall came after cannabis-laced sweets were mistakenly believed to be Haribo products, prompting a swift response from both health officials and the company itself.
What Happened?
The issue began in the Netherlands, where law enforcement seized THC-infused gummies from an unlicensed producer. These sweets were packaged to resemble popular mainstream brands, including Haribo. While Haribo had no direct link to the illicit product, the visual similarity was enough to trigger a precautionary recall in Belgium.
Belgium’s Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (FASFC) launched an investigation and issued a temporary recall of select Haribo products from store shelves. Though no actual traces of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive compound in cannabis) were found in legitimate Haribo sweets, the risk of consumer confusion was considered significant enough to act quickly.
What Products Were Affected?
The recall focused primarily on fruit-flavored gummies that closely resemble the look of the counterfeit Dutch edibles. These include Haribo’s:
- Happy Cola
- Goldbears
- Fruitilicious
Retailers were advised to remove these items temporarily, pending clarity on supply chain security and packaging integrity. Haribo is cooperating with authorities to ensure that none of its authentic sweets are linked to any form of cannabis contamination.
Haribo’s Response
Haribo has strongly denied any involvement with the cannabis-laced products and emphasized that all of its manufacturing processes meet stringent European food safety regulations. A spokesperson for the company stated:
“We take product safety extremely seriously. Haribo does not produce or distribute any items containing cannabis or related substances.”
The company is also pursuing legal action against parties distributing counterfeit products under its brand name.
What Consumers Should Know
For consumers in Belgium, the recall is more a precautionary step than an indication of danger. No one has reported illness or adverse reactions from consuming legitimate Haribo sweets. That said, anyone who recently purchased gummies resembling Haribo in unofficial packaging or without clear labeling should avoid consumption and report the item to local health authorities.
Final Thoughts
This incident highlights the growing challenges of counterfeit food products in Europe and the risks they pose to public trust. While Haribo sweets recalled in Belgium after cannabis found in Dutch gummies may sound alarming, it’s more a case of misidentification and brand misuse than a real health threat—though the confusion it caused is very real.
As always, check packaging carefully and buy from trusted retailers. And no, Haribo isn’t getting into the weed business—despite what misleading packaging might suggest.
