Coffeeshops are allowed to grow, THC in Haribo, DEA and cannabis in USA + Canada

Welcome to CannaNews in July. Even if little is happening politically in Germany, a lot is happening internationally – and not everything is positive. In today’s video, we take a look at four current developments that are important for cannabis patients, consumers and the industry: From the model project in the Netherlands to cannabis prohibition in the USA – here are the most important updates.

Model project in the Netherlands: Coffeeshops allowed to grow legally for the first time

The Netherlands is officially launching a long-awaited pilot project: since April, selected coffee shops in ten cities have been allowed to sell legally grown cannabis for the first time. A total of around 80 stores are involved. The aim is to solve the so-called “backdoor problem” – i.e. the contradiction that coffee shops are allowed to sell legally, but the product was previously obtained from the illegal market.

More quality, less risk

The Dutch government wants to ensure greater safety with this step. A study had previously revealed that around 20 percent of the cannabis products tested in coffee shops were contaminated with mold, bacteria or harmful substances – including heavy metals such as lead.

Limited selection – but a start

The project starts with restrictions: The selection of varieties is limited, and some hashish is still only available on the black market. Nevertheless: an important step towards quality, transparency and consumer protection.

• Start: April 2025
• 80 coffee shops in 10 municipalities
• Goal: controlled cultivation & quality assurance

Stream news for free

Don’t miss a video, follow us on YouTube x CannaZen.

Scandal in confectionery: THC found in Haribo bags

A curious but serious report also came from the Netherlands: Traces of THC were found in several Haribo bags – specifically in the “Happy Cola Fizz” variety. The Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA ) raised the alarm after several people – including children – complained of dizziness and nausea.

How did THC get into the sweets?

It is still unclear how the incident occurred. Initial suspicions suggest that original bags may have been tampered with and replaced with products containing THC. Haribo itself is not assuming that this was a mistake in its own production, but is talking about a deliberate substitution.

Investigations underway – safety first

The affected batches were recalled. The police are investigating how the contamination could have occurred. Parents and consumers should check the packaging and question the origin – especially for products from abroad.

• Affected: Haribo Happy Cola Fizz
• Several health complaints reported
• NVWA warning & recall campaign

USA: DEA declares cannabis a “top priority” – but maintains ban

A clear signal, but no real breakthrough: the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA ) has announced in a hearing in the Senate that it wants to review the national classification of THC. The goal is a uniform federal law – but until then, cannabis will remain illegal at federal level.

Contradiction between federal and state law

While cannabis is already legally available in many US states, it is still prohibited at federal level. This leads to problems with border crossings, banks, insurance companies and law enforcement.

Reform with the handbrake on

The DEA emphasizes that a reassessment should be carried out on a scientific basis. An immediate change of course is therefore not to be expected. Many experts criticize the slow progress – especially in a country where cannabis has long been part of everyday life in several federal states.

• Legalization in many US states
• But still banned nationwide
• No release before new risk analysis

Canada shows effect: legal market displaces dealers

Five years after the legalization of cannabis in Canada, it is clear that the legal market is working. According to a new study, around 75 percent of consumers now buy their cannabis from official sales outlets. The black market has shrunk considerably.

Affordable, available, safe

The main reasons for its success: good availability, fair prices and clear regulation. Since the opening of the first stores in October 2018, sales have been rising continuously. And: the number of illegal sales is falling.

Similar trend in the USA

In legal US states, over 50 percent of consumers also buy their cannabis in stores. Studies show: The more licensed sales outlets, the smaller the black market. A finding that should also be interesting for Germany.

• 75 % of consumers use legal stores
• Stable prices & good availability
• Model is considered an international reference case

A lot is happening internationally – but not everywhere in the same direction

The cannabis world is not standing still: while countries such as Canada and the Netherlands are setting new standards with controlled projects and legal cultivation, there are setbacks in the USA and parts of Europe. One example of this is Italy, where evidence of THC even without an intoxicating effect already leads to driving disqualifications – or CBD products are suddenly illegal.

For patients, consumers and the industry, this means staying informed, monitoring developments – and campaigning for fair, transparent and safe cannabis regulation. As always, you can find more information, current offers and medical advice at en.cannazen.one/.