Microdosing mushroom chocolates from Diamond Shruumz linked to illness, hospitalization

Summer Lin
·2 min read
The FDA and CDC, in collaboration with America's Poison Centers and state and local partners, are investigating a series of illnesses associated with eating Diamond Shruumz-brand Chocolate Bars, Cones, and Gummies. As part of this investigation, FDA and state partners have collected multiple samples of Diamond Shruumz-brand Chocolate Bars and the analysis is ongoing. FDA's investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of these illnesses and the appropriate next steps. As of June 17, 2024, a total of 26 illnesses have been reported from 16 states including AL (1), AZ (6), CA (1), IN (3), KY (2), MD (1), MN (1), MO (1), MT (1), NV (1), NJ (1), NY (1), NC (1), PA (1), SC (3), and TN (1). Twenty-five (25) of the 26 people have reported seeking medical care; 16 have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported. FDA has been in contact with the firm about a possible voluntary recall, but these discussions are still ongoing. This advisory will be updated as additional information becomes available.
The CDC and other agencies are investigating a series of illnesses associated with the Diamond Shruumz brand of mushroom microdosing products, made in Santa Ana. (FDA)

Diamond Shruumz chocolate bars, cones and gummies — microdosing products made in Santa Ana — have been linked to cases of severe illnesses, according to U.S. health agencies.

Officials from the California Department of Public Health said Friday that there have been several hospitalizations in 16 states and at least one poisoning in California linked to the mushroom products, according to an agency news release.

"These products have been linked to hospitalization and other serious side effects, putting the public at risk,” said Dr. Tomás Aragón, state public health officer and director of the Public Health Department. “California will not allow the distribution and sale of these unsafe products, and we will continue to work diligently with our local, state and federal partners to remove these products and to generate awareness and educate the public."

Read more: These yogurt-covered pretzels might make you sick, FDA warns. Here's what you need to know

As of Monday, 26 people had been reported ill and 10 hospitalized in 16 states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Of those sickened, 25 have sought medical care. Several patients have needed intubation, mechanical ventilation and admission to an intensive care unit.

Symptoms have included seizures, loss of consciousness, confusion, sleepiness, agitation, abnormal heart rate, hyper/hypotension, nausea and vomiting, according to the CDPH.

The cause of the illnesses hasn't been determined. Authorities advise against eating or selling the products and said any previously bought should be thrown away.

The CDPH has issued a notice of violation to the owner of Diamond Shruumz, and it was expected to issue a recall Friday, according to a news release. The company could face civil or criminal penalties.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.