The government has announced a heightened crackdown on jelly candies and other confectionery products that contain cannabis extracts exceeding the legal limits of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a government spokeswoman confirmed on Monday.

Deputy government spokeswoman Sasikarn Watthanachan expressed concerns about the potential impact of these products on children and young people, emphasizing the need for regulatory action to address foods, drinks, and sweets containing illegal THC and cannabidiol (CBD) levels.

To combat this issue, the government has instructed the Ministry of Public Health to collaborate with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and provincial public health offices across the country.

This initiative aims to bolster inspections of products that incorporate cannabis extracts to ensure compliance with legal standards.

In addition, the Public Health Ministry has sought the assistance of the Narcotics Suppression Bureau and the Office of the Narcotics Control Board.

These entities will conduct inspections of cannabis shops nationwide to verify adherence to existing laws and regulations concerning cannabis-infused foods.

Sasikarn highlighted the legal repercussions for shop owners who improperly mix cannabis into food or who fail to provide appropriate labeling regarding THC content.

Violators could face severe penalties, including a maximum fine of 30,000 baht or a prison sentence of up to three years, or a combination of both.

Additionally, those found selling products with THC levels exceeding the established legal limit could incur fines of up to 20,000 baht and face jail terms of up to two years, or both penalties.