The Hidden Cost of Cannabis Infused Products

 A University Student’s Warning About Safety and Accountability by Quartey Karen Naa Oyoo 

The growing business of cannabis-infused products has created new opportunities for entrepreneurs, but behind the colourful packaging and claims of relaxation lies a growing concern about the safety of young consumers. For some university students, curiosity and social influence can lead to dangerous situations when products are sold without proper information, regulation or responsible guidance.

View of students at school programs with infused products 

       Source : Tictok 

Ama , a university student, never expected a product she bought at a campus social event to change her life. She had attended a university programe with friends where infused products were being promoted and sold as a way to relax and enjoy the occasion. Believing the product was harmless, she purchased and consumed it without fully understanding what was inside or how strong its effects could be.

Ama a university student who was a victim of cannabis

Products 

Source: Google 

According to Ama, after taking the infused product, she began feeling unusual effects. She struggled to stay aware of her surroundings and eventually lost consciousness. The next morning, she woke up alone in an empty lecture hall with no clear memory of what had happened after she became unconscious. She later realised she had been sexually assaulted while she was unable to protect herself or give consent.

What is cannabis? Learn more from AMA’s story 

        Source : Tictok 

Ama’s experience highlights the dangers associated with consuming unknown or poorly regulated infused products, especially among young adults. Health professionals warn that cannabis-infused edibles can affect people differently depending on the strength of the product, dosage and individual reactions. Effects such as confusion, impaired judgement, dizziness and loss of coordination may place users in vulnerable situations.

Health professionals teaches and explains why cannabis - infused edibles affect people and their mental health.

            Source : Karen Quartey 

The incident also raises questions about the growing business around infused products and the responsibility of sellers. Experts argue that businesses must provide accurate information about ingredients, strength, possible side effects and safe consumption. Selling products without proper labelling or misleading consumers about their effects can increase health and safety risks.

Experts argue about the business which must provide accurate information about the ingredients .

             Source : Quartey Karen 

In Ghana, discussions around hemp and cannabis-related businesses continue as the country explores the economic potential of these industries. However, public health advocates stress that business growth must go together with consumer protection. They believe students and young adults need better education about the differences between legal hemp products and intoxicating cannabis products, as well as the risks of consuming substances from unverified sources.

Public health Advocates stress that business growth must go together with consumer protection. 

              Source : Google 

Universities also have an important role to play by creating awareness programmes on substance safety, consent, sexual violence prevention and mental health support. Students need access to accurate information so they can make informed decisions and recognise potentially harmful situations.

As the infused-products industry expands, Ama’s story serves as a reminder that behind every business opportunity are real people affected by the choices made by manufacturers, sellers and consumers. Balancing innovation with safety, accountability and education will be essential to protecting young people while allowing responsible businesses to grow.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ? SHOULD INFUSED PRODUCTS BE BANDED AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS?

A Level 300 Student Production By Quartey Karen Naa Oyoo 

Thank you.