The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is raising alarms about a surge in illnesses connected to Diamond Shruumz edible products. As of Monday, at least 16 hospitalizations and 26 total illnesses have been reported across 16 states. The states affected include Alabama, Arizona, California, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
Symptoms associated with these cases range from seizures, muscle rigidity, and abnormal heart rates and blood pressure to vomiting. Several individuals have required intensive care, including intubation and mechanical ventilation, after consuming the company's microdosing chocolate bars, infused cones, or microdose and macrodose gummies. The FDA, in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), America's Poison Centers, and state and local partners, is actively investigating the cause of these severe reactions.
"The exact cause of the reported illnesses has yet to be uncovered," the FDA noted, adding that they are in communication with Diamond Shruumz regarding a potential recall. The FDA strongly advises consumers to refrain from eating, selling, or serving Diamond Shruumz chocolate bars, cones, and gummies, which are marketed as containing a proprietary blend of mushrooms.
Diamond Shruumz has not responded to requests for comment from various media outlets, including CNN. The products in question contain ingredients such as reishi and lion's mane mushrooms, which are often promoted for their health benefits. However, the FDA and CDC have warned that these products might contain undisclosed ingredients that could be linked to the reported severe illnesses.
The popularity of similar products containing cannabis or mushrooms has been on the rise, especially in the form of gummies, chocolates, and other snack foods. These items are particularly appealing to children and teenagers, which adds to the urgency of the FDA's warning. The CDC emphasized that consumers should avoid these products, as they might contain harmful undisclosed ingredients.
Anyone experiencing symptoms after consuming Diamond Shruumz products is urged to seek medical attention immediately or contact the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222. Adverse events can also be reported to the FDA's MedWatch program.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) echoed the FDA's warning, advising Michigan residents to discard any Diamond Shruumz products. Although no cases have been reported in Michigan to date, the MDHHS is taking precautions to prevent potential health risks.
The FDA and CDC's ongoing investigation aims to determine the root cause of the illnesses. Preliminary reports suggest that the products might contain a blend of mushrooms that could potentially cause severe reactions. The FDA highlighted that mushroom-containing products are being marketed for various alleged health benefits, such as improved focus and energy, and even hallucinations and euphoria. Despite these claims, the actual safety and ingredient disclosure of these products remain questionable.
"We have seen a significant number of severe reactions linked to these products," said an FDA spokesperson. "The symptoms reported, including seizures and central nervous system depression, are extremely concerning and underscore the need for consumers to heed our warnings."
