Candy manufacturer Haribo has initiated a significant product recall in Belgium, specifically for its 1-kilogram bags of Happy Cola Fizz. This decision comes after traces of cannabis were discovered in some bags of the same product in the Netherlands.
The Belgian food agency, FAVV-AFSCA, officially confirmed the recall on Monday, June 2, 2025, emphasizing potential health risks associated with consuming the affected sweets.
The Recall: Details and Health Warning
The recall is a precautionary measure taken by Haribo in cooperation with food safety authorities.
Specific Product Details and Associated Risks
In a joint press release with the Belgian agency, Haribo explicitly stated that consumption of these particular sweets could lead to various health complaints, including dizziness. The recall specifically concerns large bags of fizzy colas bearing the production code L341-4002307906. This is the exact same batch number that was previously withdrawn from sale in the Netherlands. The affected products also have an expiry date until January 2026.
Precautionary Measure Across Regions
“Haribo has carried out this recall in Belgium as a precautionary measure,” stated Liesbeth Van de Voorde, spokesperson for the Belgian food agency, in an interview with Euronews. She confirmed that, as of the time of the announcement, no reports of illness related to these sweets had been received in Belgium. A consumer hotline has been established, and no issues have been reported in Belgium so far.
However, despite the lack of direct reports in Belgium, the immediate recall highlights the seriousness of the potential contamination. Haribo is recalling the entire stock of this specific product across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg.
Investigation and Consumer Advice
Authorities are actively investigating how the candy became contaminated, while consumers are urged to take immediate action if they possess the recalled product.
Origin of the Contamination Report
The issue first emerged in the Netherlands, where the one-kilogram bags of sour candies were withdrawn after several individuals, including both adults and children, reported feeling unwell after consumption. Following police notification of the problem, sample testing confirmed that the product was indeed laced with cannabis.
Dutch authorities have launched an investigation to determine how the candy became contaminated with the illicit substance. Currently, only three bags in the Netherlands are confirmed to be involved.
Limited Scope and Refund Process
Patrick Tax, marketing head for Haribo Netherlands and Belgium, assured domestic media in Belgium that “The authorities’ investigation concerns a limited number of reports and one specific product in the east of the Netherlands.” The Belgian food agency spokesperson, Van de Voorde, reiterated that this is the only product for which they have received information, meaning no other Haribo products are currently deemed a risk.
Consumers are strongly advised not to consume the recalled sweets. If the sweets have already been consumed, individuals are urged to contact a general practitioner (GP) immediately. For refunds, consumers are asked to send the product directly to Haribo’s Belgian head office, providing their personal details and bank account number. The exact Belgian shops that were selling these large packs have not been publicly disclosed.
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