In the News: Diamond Shruumz-Brand Chocolate Bars, Cones, and Gummies

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently investigating an outbreak of illnesses linked to Diamond Shruumz-brand chocolate bars, cones, and gummies marketed as containing a proprietary blend of mushroom. As of July 15, 2024, there have been 69 reported cases across 28 states, resulting in 36 hospitalizations and one potential death since June 2024. Symptoms include seizures, confusion, abnormal heart rates, and nausea. The exact cause of these illnesses is still under investigation.

Edible products containing psychoactive compounds such as cannabis or mushroom extracts are increasing in availability. Mushroom-containing products have been marketed for promoting health or for achieving nonspecific physical or psychoactive effects. Experiences, however, can be unpredictable and may vary depending on how much people consume and their personality, mood, expectations, and surroundings (e.g., presence of a trained facilitator, type of light and music, indoor or outdoor setting). Other factors that can affect the experience include the person’s health, the type of mushroom, dose (or amount) taken, previous experience with similar substances, and combined use with other drugs. Some people have reported unpleasant experiences (i.e., “bad trips"), involving extreme fear, confusion, or panic and other adverse effects such as increased blood pressure and heart rate, headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, poor sleep, anxiety, paranoia, persistent psychosis, and hallucinations.

In addition, these products might contain undisclosed ingredients, including illicit substances, other adulterants, or potentially harmful contaminants that are not approved for use in food. 

Although many edible products are marketed as containing ingredients from natural sources, “natural” does not always mean “safe.” They may contain prescription drugs or other ingredients not listed on the packaging. Some of these ingredients may be unsafe.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), FDA, and America’s Poison Centers are continuing to monitor cases of illness reported to poison centers 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).

Additional Resources

Investigation of Illnesses: Diamond Shruumz-Brand Chocolate Bars, Cones, & Gummies (June 2024) (FDA)

Severe Illness Potentially Associated with Consuming Diamond Shruumz^TM Brand Chocolate Bars, Cones, and Gummies (CDC)

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