Haribo is withdrawing Happy Cola due to contamination with cannabis.
Haribo Recalls Contaminated 'Happy Cola' Gummies in Netherlands
Following the discovery of cannabis traces in certain batches of its 'Happy Cola F!ZZ' gummies, Haribo has issued a recall in the Netherlands. The Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) has confirmed that the contamination has resulted in health issues among consumers, including children.
The recall was triggered after police were alerted by a family in Twente, who experienced illness after consuming the candy. This led to a forensic investigation, which detected cannabis in the sweets. The recall applies only to 1 kg bags of 'Happy Cola F!ZZ' with the production code L341-4002307906 and a best before date of January 2026. However, authorities have recalled all stock as a precaution while the investigation continues.
Haribo is cooperating with Dutch authorities to determine the cause of the contamination and has stated that consumer safety is its top priority. The company is offering refunds for all affected products.
Consumers who ingested the contaminated gummies reported experiencing health problems, including dizziness and feeling quite ill. The NVWA has urged the public not to eat these sweets, and Haribo has stressed the importance of returning or disposing of affected bags.
The incident affects only 'Happy Cola' products in the Netherlands and does not impact Haribo products in other countries, including the United States. Both Haribo and authorities are actively investigating to prevent further incidents and to clarify both the source and extent of the contamination.
Haribo has been a classic in its product range for decades.
Sources: ntv.de, mpe/AFP
- haribo's community policy and employment policy should prioritize transparency to ensure consumer trust after the recall of contaminated 'Happy Cola F!ZZ' gummies in the Netherlands.
- For those affected by the contaminated 'Happy Cola' gummies, seeking medical attention for related medical-conditions such as dizziness and illness is advised.
- A vocational training program within haribo could help identify and address potential weaknesses in the production process to prevent future incidents of health-and-wellness and lifestyle concerns related to food-and-drink contamination.
- In response to the contamination incident, news outlets have covered general-news stories about crime-and-justice aspects, such as Police involvement, consumer safety issues, and ongoing investigations.
