Haribo recalls Happy Cola sweets in the Netherlands due to contamination
Haribo has initiated a precautionary recall of its “Happy Cola F!ZZ” gummy sweets across the Netherlands after traces of cannabis were detected in several packets. The recall follows reports of dizziness and other symptoms among consumers, including children.
Scope of the recall
The Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) confirmed that three specific batches of Happy Cola F!ZZ were affected. Despite the limited number, Haribo opted for a full product withdrawal to eliminate any risk to public health.
“There are bags in circulation with sweets that can lead to health complaints, such as dizziness, when consumed,” said NVWA spokesperson Saida Ahyad.
Detection and analytical methods
Samples were analyzed by accredited laboratories using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Initial results indicated THC concentrations of up to 0.02% by weight, well above the EU’s maximum residue level of 0.001% for cannabinoids in foodstuffs.
Supply chain vulnerabilities
Investigators are scrutinizing Haribo’s packaging lines and storage facilities in the eastern Netherlands. Potential contamination vectors include shared equipment, packaging material handling, and human factors during secondary processing.
Regulatory framework and testing protocols
Under EU Regulation 2015/2283 (Novel Food) and Commission Regulation (EU) No 625/2017 on official controls, Member States must perform routine screening for psychoactive substances in confectionery. Accredited labs employ immunoassays for rapid testing, followed by confirmatory GC–MS analysis.
Expert insights on contamination risks
Dr. Maria van den Heuvel, food toxicologist at Wageningen University, emphasized in-line quality control and strict batch segregation:
“Cross-contamination can occur when production lines process multiple recipes without adequate cleaning intervals. Automated sampling and real-time analytics are critical to prevent such incidents.”
Potential health impacts and consumer advice
- Symptoms reported: mild to moderate dizziness, nausea, elevated heart rate
- Vulnerable groups: children and individuals naive to THC exposure
- THC dose threshold: as little as 2–3 mg may elicit psychoactive effects in adults
Do not eat the sweets, warns the NVWA. Consumers are advised to return My Coca Cola F!ZZ to retailers for a full refund or dispose of the product safely.
Next steps and ongoing investigation
Dutch police and the NVWA continue to investigate the contamination source. Haribo has pledged full cooperation and will implement enhanced testing measures, including real-time spectroscopy on all gummy production lines, to restore consumer confidence.