Cannabis Edibles: What You Need to Know

What are cannabis edibles?

Cannabis edibles are food and drinks made with cannabis extracts like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) or CBD (cannabidiol). Common examples include brownies, gummies, chocolates, and drinks.

How do edibles affect you?

  • Takes Longer to Feel the Effects – Edibles take 30 minutes to 2 hours to start working. The effects can last up to 12 hours, with some lingering for 24 hours.
  • Stronger, Longer Effects – Edibles can be more powerful than smoking or vaping. Too much can cause dizziness, nausea, anxiety, or paranoia.
  • Start Low, Go Slow – Begin with a small dose (2.5 mg of THC or less) and wait at least 2 hours before taking more.

Safe use and storage

  • Store Safely – Keep edibles in a child-proof container, out of reach of children and pets.
  • Do Not Mix with Alcohol – Using alcohol and cannabis together increases impairment.
  • Do Not Drive – Cannabis can slow reaction time and coordination. Never drive after using it.

Cannabis laws in Newfoundland and Labrador

  • Legal Age – You must be 19 or older to buy or use cannabis.
  • Where to Buy – Only licensed retailers can sell cannabis edibles. Learn more at gov.nl.ca.
  • How Much You Can Have – You can carry up to 30 grams of dried cannabis or its equivalent.
  • Where You Can Use It – You cannot use cannabis in public places. It is only allowed in private homes or designated areas.

Health risks

  • Eating Too Much Can Be Dangerous – Taking too much can cause severe confusion, vomiting, or trouble breathing.
  • Some People Should Avoid It – If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, under 25, or have mental health concerns, cannabis is not recommended.
  • Seek Help in an Emergency – If someone has trouble breathing, extreme confusion, or severe nausea, get medical help right away.

Learn more

Services related to this information:
  • Doorways: rapid ‘one session at a time’ counselling services.
  • Bridge the gapp
    Newfoundland and Labrador’s ‘go-to’ website for mental health information. Bridge the gapp offers self-help resources, links to local services, and invites people to share their personal stories. Bridge the gapp is free of cost and available to every resident in the province. The site is divided into adult and youth sections, however many services are appropriate for both.
  • Mental health and addictions services
  • 811 HealthLine (Newfoundland & Labrador) – Call 811 or 1-888-709-2929 / TTY 1-888-709-3555
    • 811 is free and confidential. 811 is available 24/7 and can provide support with mental health and addictions issues and more.
    • Services formerly offered by the Provincial Mental Health Crisis Line are now offered by 811. Call 811 to speak with a registered nurse who is also a trained crisis intervener.