Denver's D: Altitude Shipping Crashing Youth Gummies?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 2, 2026

The vibrant energy of Denver, with its outdoor adventures and progressive spirit, can sometimes mask hidden dangers lurking in plain sight. One such danger is the increasing prevalence of cannabis-infused edibles, particularly gummies, and their potential impact on children. Specifically, the emergence of products like “Crashing Youth Gummies,” purportedly from Altitude Shipping, raises serious concerns for Denver parents. This isn’t just about recreational use; it’s about the accidental ingestion, potential counterfeiting, and long-term health consequences for our kids.

Denver parents need to be hyper-vigilant.

The first step is understanding the landscape. Colorado’s cannabis laws, while legalizing recreational marijuana for adults 21 and over, strictly prohibit its use by minors. Edibles, including gummies, are a common form of cannabis consumption, but their appealing appearance and candy-like flavors make them particularly attractive to children. This creates a significant risk of accidental ingestion, especially in homes where adults consume cannabis.

Consider the case of a family in the Washington Park neighborhood. They stored their edibles in a kitchen cabinet, thinking it was out of reach. Their four-year-old, however, managed to climb onto a chair and access the gummies, consuming several before being discovered. The child experienced severe anxiety and required a trip to the emergency room at Children’s Hospital Colorado. This scenario, unfortunately, is not unique.

Identifying counterfeit gummies is another critical challenge. The unregulated nature of some cannabis products, particularly those sold online or through unofficial channels, increases the risk of encountering counterfeit or mislabeled edibles. These products may contain inaccurate dosages of THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, or even harmful contaminants.

Here’s how to spot potential counterfeits:

Packaging Discrepancies: Look for misspellings, blurry images, or inconsistencies in branding compared to known legitimate products. Check Altitude Shipping’s official website (if one exists) for product images and descriptions to compare.
Unusual Pricing: Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Counterfeit products are often sold at significantly lower prices than legitimate ones.
Lack of Lab Testing Information: Legal cannabis products in Colorado are required to undergo lab testing for potency and contaminants. Look for a QR code or label indicating the product has been tested and provides information about the results. If this information is missing or appears fake, avoid the product.
Source of Purchase: Only purchase cannabis products from licensed dispensaries in Denver. Avoid buying from individuals, online marketplaces, or unlicensed retailers.

Navigating Colorado’s cannabis laws is crucial for responsible parenting. While adults can legally possess and consume cannabis, it’s illegal to provide it to minors. This includes leaving edibles within reach of children, even unintentionally. The penalties for doing so can be severe, ranging from fines to jail time.

Here’s a breakdown of key Colorado cannabis laws relevant to parents:

Age Restriction: You must be 21 or older to purchase, possess, or consume cannabis in Colorado.
Public Consumption: It is illegal to consume cannabis in public places, including parks, sidewalks, and streets.
Driving Under the Influence: Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal and carries similar penalties to driving under the influence of alcohol.
Child Endangerment: Leaving cannabis products accessible to children can be considered child endangerment, especially if a child ingests the product and suffers harm.

What to do if your child accidentally ingests cannabis:

Stay Calm: Panicking will only escalate the situation.
Assess the Situation: Determine how much your child ingested and when. Note any symptoms they are experiencing, such as drowsiness, anxiety, vomiting, or difficulty breathing.
Call Poison Control: Immediately call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. They can provide guidance on what to do next.
Seek Medical Attention: If your child is experiencing severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or loss of consciousness, call 911 or take them to the nearest emergency room.
Be Honest with Medical Professionals: It’s crucial to be honest with medical professionals about the possibility of cannabis ingestion. This will help them provide the appropriate treatment.

Denver offers numerous resources for families struggling with accidental ingestion or addiction. The Denver Department of Public Health & Environment provides information on cannabis safety and responsible use. The Colorado Department of Human Services offers resources for substance abuse treatment and prevention.

Here are some specific local resources:

Denver Health: Provides medical care and substance abuse treatment services.
Mental Health Center of Denver: Offers mental health and addiction services for children and adults.
The Phoenix Multisport: A sober active community that fosters connection and personal growth through athletics.
SMART Recovery Denver: Offers science-based, secular support groups for individuals seeking recovery from addiction.

Beyond addressing accidental ingestion, it’s essential to explore healthy alternatives to cannabis-infused edibles. Denver boasts a vibrant culinary scene with countless options for satisfying sweet cravings without resorting to potentially harmful substances.

Consider these alternatives:

Local Bakeries: Denver is home to numerous award-winning bakeries offering delicious and safe treats.
Farmers Markets: Explore local farmers markets for fresh fruits and vegetables, which can be used to create healthy and satisfying snacks.
Homemade Treats: Baking your own treats allows you to control the ingredients and avoid potentially harmful additives.

The “Crashing Youth Gummies” scare should serve as a wake-up call for Denver parents. We must be proactive in protecting our children from the risks associated with cannabis edibles. This means educating ourselves about the laws, identifying potential counterfeits, and seeking help when needed. It also means fostering open communication with our children about the dangers of drugs and promoting healthy alternatives. The safety and well-being of our kids depend on it.