Alimentos mágicos: problemática e detecção da Cannabis sp. em doces recreativos

Abstract

Marijuana is the most used illicit drug in Brazil and in the world, consumed mainly in the forms of dry plant drug and hashish, particularly by the young portion of the population. Within this parameter, it’s observed the use of marijuana through smoking, such as cigarettes and pipes, and as an ingredient in foods, especially sweets and cakes. This article aims to promote a discussion about recreational sweets that have cannabis sp., and to develop a technique of easy and fast application to detect cannabis on those sweets sold illegally in public places, more specifically at the beaches of Rio Grande do Norte. Seven samples were collected from different regions of Natal-RN, submitted to colorimetric tests (fast blue and Duquenols-Levine) and TLC, in order to detect the presence of THC in the collected candies. Cannabis sp can bring several benefits, but also several risks. In the analyzes carried out, traces of cannabinoids were found both in the staining tests, as well as in the CCD, showing that it is possible to acquire and consume this type of drug of abuse in an easy and affordable way, so it is necessary to increase the awareness of the general public. With regard to the potential dangers that sweets and foods containing Cannabis sp. in their composition can cause and redouble attention in relation to what we buy and consume in public places.