New York AG issues warning about candy with 'dangerously high concentrations of THC'

The New York Attorney General wants parents to be on high alert about cannabis products that could be mistaken for regular candy and snacks.

In a press release issued Tuesday, Attorney General Letitia James noted the products are not only illegal in New York, but pose a great danger to unsuspecting children.

“These unregulated and deceptive cannabis products will only confuse and harm New Yorkers, which is why they have no place in our state,” James said in the press release.

The press release included pictures of THC products that are packaged to look like ordinary Sour Patch Kids, Oreos, Cheeto Puffs and Doritos.

"New York parents should be on the alert for deceptive cannabis products that look like standard snacks and candy but contain dangerously high concentrations of THC," James tweeted.

THC is the compound found in cannabis that produces the "high" effect in users.

The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control said the ingestion of the compound through food or drink products poses greater risks of poisoning, especially in children.

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"Since marijuana use has been legalized in some states, accidental marijuana poisonings in children have increased, sometimes requiring visits to the emergency room or hospitalization," the CDC wrote.

Attorney Generals in Ohio, Arkansas and Connecticut also issued similar warnings to parents as Halloween approaches.

"In light of an increase in accidental overdoses among children nationwide, it is more vital than ever that we do everything we can to curb this crisis and prevent any further harm, or even worse, death," James said.

Follow reporter Asha Gilbert @Coastalasha. Email: agilbert@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: New York AG warns parents about candy with high THC concentration