When Pizza Gets You High: The Accidental THC Outbreak in Wisconsin that left 85 people baked
In what sounds like the plot of a stoner comedy, more than 85 unsuspecting people in Wisconsin got unintentionally baked after eating food from a local pizzeria. The culprit? THC-infused cooking oil accidentally used in pizza dough preparation. Here’s how a simple slice turned into a statewide health investigation.
The Incident: In October 2024, Famous Yeti’s Pizza in Stoughton, Wisconsin, unknowingly served THC-laced food to its customers. The incident, detailed in a CDC report released on July 24, 2025, sparked panic and confusion among diners who experienced symptoms ranging from dizziness and nausea to paranoia and hallucinations. Some were hospitalized, while others called emergency services after testing positive for THC—without knowingly consuming any.
The restaurant shares its building with a licensed edible producer. When Famous Yeti’s ran out of cooking oil, they borrowed a container from the shared kitchen. It turned out the borrowed oil was infused with delta-9 THC, meant for making cannabis edibles. The restaurant used it in the dough for pizza, garlic bread, and sandwiches.
The pizzeria immediately cooperated with authorities and closed for inspection. The Wisconsin Food Code required a full sanitization before reopening two days later. No criminal charges were filed, and the incident was officially ruled accidental.
By the Numbers:
- 85 confirmed THC intoxications
- 1 to 91: age range of affected customers
- 15 tested positive for THC
- 3 hospitalized overnight
- 8 additional cases suspected
This case highlights the risks of co-locating cannabis edibles production with non-cannabis food businesses. It underscores the need for clear labeling, separate storage, and strict regulations to avoid similar slip-ups in the future.
No one expects a panic attack with their pepperoni. But as cannabis culture grows and intertwines with mainstream food production, safeguards must evolve too. Let’s just say next time, check the label on that “shared” cooking oil before you toss it in the dough.
