USA – The outbreak of illnesses linked to Diamond Shruumz edibles has resulted in a second death, highlighting the serious health risks posed by these products.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues to investigate the situation, as reports of adverse reactions from across the country continue to rise.
As of July 22, 2024, the FDA has documented 74 cases of illness connected to Diamond Shruumz edibles across 28 states.
The severity of the outbreak is accentuated by the fact that 62 individuals have sought medical attention, 38 of whom required hospitalization. Tragically, the outbreak has now claimed two lives, raising alarm about the safety of these products.
The range of affected products includes micro-dosing edibles such as chocolate bars, gummies, and cones. These items have been found to contain hazardous chemicals commonly found in certain types of mushrooms, which have been identified as the source of the health issues.
Symptoms reported by patients include respiratory failure, seizures, central nervous system depression, loss of consciousness, confusion, sleepiness, agitation, abnormal heart rates, and both hyper and hypotension, alongside gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting.
Chemicals of concern
The FDA’s analysis of the Diamond Shruumz products has revealed the presence of several dangerous compounds, including 4-acetoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (4-acetoxy-DMT), Desmethoxyyangonin, Dihydrokavain and Kavain.
4-acetoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (4-acetoxy-DMT), also known as O-acetylpsilocin or psilacetin, is related to psilocybin, the active ingredient in certain hallucinogenic mushrooms. Desmethoxyyangonin is a kavalactone found in kava plants, which can have psychoactive effects. Meanwhile, dihydrokavain and kavain are additional kavalactones that can affect the central nervous system.
Recall efforts and ongoing risks
In response to the outbreak, Prophet Premium Blends, the manufacturer of Diamond Shruumz, initially hesitated but ultimately decided to recall all flavors of the affected edibles.
These products have been available for purchase both online and at numerous retail locations nationwide, including smoke shops and outlets specializing in hemp-derived products such as cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-8 THC).
The FDA has expressed concern that despite the recall, Diamond Shruumz products may still be available for purchase at some retailers. The agency is actively working with organizations like the National Association of Convenience Stores and the National Smoke Shop Association to increase awareness and ensure the removal of these products from shelves.
Consumers are strongly advised to check their homes for any Diamond Shruumz products and dispose of them immediately. The FDA has emphasized the importance of avoiding the consumption of these edibles and has urged individuals to report any retailers continuing to sell the recalled items.
For those who have consumed Diamond Shruumz products and are experiencing adverse symptoms, immediate medical attention is crucial, especially if respiratory difficulties are present.
Recent outbreaks highlight ongoing risks
This outbreak is not an isolated incident. Over the past year, several other food safety crises have been linked to edible products containing psychoactive or poorly regulated ingredients.
Earlier in 2024, the FDA issued warnings regarding a spike in illnesses related to delta-8 THC products. These products, often sold as gummies and oils, led to numerous cases of adverse reactions, including hallucinations, nausea, and loss of consciousness, primarily affecting children and teenagers who mistakenly consumed the items thinking they were standard candies.
In late 2023, an outbreak of Salmonella infections was traced back to kratom-infused edibles. This incident involved over 100 reported cases across multiple states, with dozens of hospitalizations. The FDA subsequently increased its scrutiny of kratom products, warning consumers of the potential dangers of consuming such items without sufficient regulatory oversight.
Another incident occurred in early 2023 when a batch of cannabis-infused brownies led to severe food poisoning symptoms in over 50 individuals in California. These products contained improperly labeled dosages and were later found to have contamination issues during manufacturing.
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