FDA Links Illnesses, Hospitalizations to Recalled Mushroom Micro-Dosing Candies

More illnesses, hospitalizations, and possible deaths linked to recalled Diamond Shruumz micro-dosing mushroom chocolate products, the FDA announced on Thursday. The agency also released initial lab results revealing prescription drugs, controlled substances, and unlisted compounds in the products.

Issue Begins with Severe Cases, Possible Deaths

This investigation began with a "severe" illness linked to the products, which resulted in several people being hospitalized with seizures, vomiting, and abnormal heart rates. The FDA, CDC, and other agencies investigated eight illnesses from four states, six resulting in hospitalization. More products were recalled, and by late July, the agency reported 74 cases in 28 states, 38 hospitalizations, and two possible deaths.

Shady Shrooms

On Aug. 2, the FDA revealed that the total number of reported illnesses linked to the sweets had risen to 113, with 42 hospitalizations, and the same number of possible deaths across 28 states. Despite the warnings, the products are still on some shelves.

What's in the Shrooms?

Initial FDA testing found:

• Muscimol in six of 19 samples—not enough to explain all symptoms
• Acetylpsilocin (metabolizes into psilocin) in nine samples
• Psilocin (a Schedule I substance) in four samples
• Pregabalin (a prescription drug) in three samples
• 15 samples contained kavalactones, known for their psychoactive and mood-enhancing effects, which are toxic to the liver

The FDA noted the presence of varying compounds in different flavors and within the same flavors, with potential interactions between the compounds requiring further research.

What Now?

All Diamond Shruumz-brand micro-dosing products have been recalled: chocolate bars, cones, and gummies. Parent company Prophet Premium Blends has halted production and distribution and is investigating. They attribute the illnesses to higher-than-normal Muscimol levels and urge consumers to refrain from using the products.

Reported illnesses and symptoms span 28 states—full list and symptoms in the article—and the FDA advises proper disposal of any Diamond Shruumz products.