CDC

Mass intoxication: THC-laced oil sickened 85 in Wisconsin restaurant

July 31, 2025

In October 2024, at least 85 individuals aged 1 to 91 experienced symptoms of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) intoxication after consuming food from a Wisconsin restaurant. The restaurant, located in a building with a cooperative kitchen, unknowingly used THC-infused oil—intended for edible cannabis products—to prepare items like pizza and garlic bread. Symptoms reported included dizziness, sleepiness, anxiety, and hallucinations, typically beginning within five hours of eating.

The oil had been produced by a state-licensed vendor operating in the shared kitchen space. The restaurant had run out of its usual cooking oil and inadvertently used the THC-infused product. This event highlights the potential for accidental mass intoxication when THC-containing ingredients aren't clearly labeled or securely stored.

Clinicians and public health professionals are urged to consider THC exposure in patients presenting with sudden-onset neuropsychiatric or GI symptoms following food consumption.

Source:

Kita-Yarbro A, et al. (2025, July 24). CDC: Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Tetrahydrocannabinol Intoxication from Food at a Restaurant — Wisconsin, October 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/74/wr/mm7427a2.htm