From the 1950s to the 1990s, a moral panic erupted in the United States over the belief that malevolent strangers were lacing Halloween candy with drugs, poison, or sharp objects such as razor blades. The panic was fueled by social upheaval, greater racial integration, and improved status for women, reflecting societal questions about trust and safety. Despite the widespread fear, few, if any, cases of poisoned Halloween candy were ever confirmed.

The poisoned candy myths have been the subject of numerous poems, stories, and cultural commentary that explore the intersection of fear, parenthood, and urban legends. The event has inspired writers to examine the dynamics of moral panic and the role of media in shaping public perception, and it has been used as a backdrop for works that critique the culture of fear. It also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of mass delusion and the importance of critical thinking.