How do parents check Halloween candy?

1. Visual Inspection:

* Look for tampering: Check for any signs of damage, tears, or unusual openings in the wrappers.

* Inspect for unusual colors or shapes: If a candy looks different than what you expect, it could be a sign of tampering.

* Check the expiration date: Make sure the candy isn't expired.

2. Touch and Smell:

* Feel for unusual textures: Candy should feel smooth and consistent. If it feels sticky, gritty, or unusually soft, it could be contaminated.

* Smell for anything unusual: Candy should have a recognizable scent. If it smells off, sour, or chemical-like, it's best to discard it.

3. Additional Tips:

* Check the candy list: Some communities provide lists of houses that have passed safety checks or are handing out non-food treats.

* Consider unwrapped candy: It's generally safest to avoid unwrapped candy altogether, as it's more susceptible to tampering.

* Educate your children: Talk to your children about only taking candy from people they know and trusting their instincts.

* Don't eat homemade treats: Unless you know the person who made it, it's best to avoid homemade treats.

* Keep a close eye on young children: Supervise them while they're trick-or-treating and when they're sorting their candy.

* Throw away suspicious candy: If you have any doubts, it's best to throw the candy away.

Important Note: While these steps can help reduce the risk, there is no foolproof method for guaranteeing the safety of all Halloween candy.