The CDC and FDA have received reports of severe illness following consumption of Diamond Shruumz brand chocolate bars, cones, and gummies reported to multiple poison control centers across the US.
As of August, a total of 145 illnesses, including 59 hospitalizations, have been reported in 29 states. There are 2 deaths potentially associated with the use of these products.
The cause of illness is not known at this time. Do not buy or eat any flavors of Diamond Shruumz brand chocolate bars, cones, or gummies, and dispose of any products that have been purchased.
CDC, FDA, and America's Poison Control Centers are continuing to monitor for cases nationwide. Any suspected cases or adverse effects after consuming any Diamond Shruumz brand products should be reported to the Poison Help Line (1-800-222-1222) immediately.
Prophet Premium Blends, LLC of Santa Ana, CA, the company that owns and operates the Diamond Shruumz brand, has initiated a recall. The products have been distributed online and at retailers, including those that sell hemp-derived smoke/vape products.
Products containing psychoactive compounds such as cannabis or mushroom extracts are increasing in availability. These edible products are often sold as gummy candies, chocolates, or other snack foods. They might contain undisclosed ingredients, including illicit substances, adulterants, or potentially harmful substances not approved for use in food.
FDA analyzed the chocolate bars and have identified the presence of multiple substances, including O-acetylpsilocin, psilocin, kavalactones, pregabalin, and muscimol.
About these substances:
Acetylpsilocin (also known as 4-acetoxy-DMT, O-acetylpsilocin or psilacetin) was found in nine (9) chocolate bar samples.
Psilocin, a Schedule I Controlled substance, was found in four (4) chocolate bar samples. O-acetylpsilocin, psilocybin, psilocin, dimethyltryptamine (DMT), and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) all have similar chemical structures. Individuals who use these substances can experience hallucinations, visual illusions, and other sensory changes. Patients may experience adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, fast heart rate, anxiety, agitation, lightheadedness, or tremors.
Pregabalin, a prescription drug, and Schedule III Controlled Substance was found in three (3) chocolate bar samples.
Desmethoxyyangonin, dihydrokavain, and kavain (kavalactones found in the kava plant, Piper methysticum), were all present together in 15 chocolate bar samples.
Muscimol, a substance found in Amanita muscaria and related mushrooms, was found in six (6) of 19 chocolate bars tested, as well as a raw ingredient used in production of the chocolate bars. Muscimol can be found in other related mushrooms such as the panther cap, Amanita pantherina. These mushrooms are sometimes consumed intentionally for psychotropic effects, altering a person's mood, thoughts, and emotions. Ingestion of A. muscaria can cause symptoms including hallucinations, drowsiness, and dizziness.
Desmethoxyyangonin, dihydrokavain, and kavain (kavalactones found in the kava plant, Piper methysticum), were all present together in 15 chocolate bar samples. Kava is a plant (Piper methysticum) cultivated in some Pacific Islands. It contains the kavalactones mentioned above (desmethoxyyangonin, dihydrokavain, and kavain) as well as other compounds. Ingestion of kava can cause numbness of the mouth and skin, loss of coordination, dizziness, and sedation. Ingestion of kava with other substances known to cause sedation, such as benzodiazepines or alcohol, can enhance sedative effects. Kava can also cause GI upset and nausea and vomiting. Chronic or heavy ingestion of kava has been occasionally associated with skin conditions and liver toxicity.
FDA and CDC medical officers are interpreting these results to understand the risks of ingesting these substances and to determine the appropriate next steps.
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