Halloween Candy: A Myth or a Menace?

Every year we hear stories about the risk of contaminated candy and the great lengths parents go to relieve their anxiety: unwrapping the candy for inspection; cutting “fun size” candies into even smaller (and “funner”) unappetizing pieces; and becoming the official candy taster—like a secret service agent on the presidential detail. 

According to Joel Best, professor of sociology and criminal justice at the University of Delaware, and the nation’s foremost expert on this topic, the threat of tampered candy is just a myth. Since the 1960s, Dr. Best has been collecting and analyzing data and news stories about the subject, and every year he tries to reassure an anxious public. His message: Focus on real threats, not imaginary ones.

While we don’t begrudge a parent who can’t resist pocketing a few Halloween treats when no one is looking, we urge parents to focus on the bigger picture of children’s safety. Is your tween or teen attending a Halloween party? Is there a possibility that drugs or alcohol will be consumed? Remember, it’s never too early to have meaningful, age-appropriate conversations about the issues facing kids today. 

We invite you to visit our website for additional practical and timely resources for parents. Wishing you all a safe and sweet Halloween!

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