Multiple children have been hospitalized after consuming Diamond Shruumz brand products, which have now been recalled. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports at least 58 illnesses in 27 states, with more cases expected as investigations continue. Although the CDC has not specified the number of child cases, the candy-like nature of these products poses a significant risk to children and teenagers. In Arizona, at least two children were hospitalized after consuming Diamond Shruumz products, while two others experienced milder symptoms.
Investigation and Product Recall
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an initial warning about Diamond Shruumz products weeks ago, which led to their recall on June 27 by California-based Prophet Premium Blends. However, the effectiveness of the recall remains under scrutiny, as cases continue to rise. The FDA’s testing revealed that these products contained toxic levels of muscimol, a chemical found in certain mushrooms, alongside other psychoactive substances like desmethoxyyangonin, kavain, and psilocybin, known as “synthetic shrooms.”
Prophet Premium Blends, in its recall notice, attributed the issue to “toxic levels of muscimol” and claimed that the products were initially marketed as containing only “natural ingredients.” The company’s Certificates of Analysis (COAs) showed abnormally high amounts of muscimol, which contributed to the recall decision. Despite these claims, an FDA spokesperson stated that the investigation into the recall’s effectiveness and potential regulatory actions against the company is ongoing.
Parental Warnings and Future Precautions
The danger posed by Diamond Shruumz products has resulted in severe consequences, including one adult death in North Dakota, currently under investigation. This individual was not hospitalized before passing away. Health officials continue to stress the importance of monitoring children’s consumption and the potential risks of seemingly harmless products.
In Phoenix, CBS affiliate KPHO-TV interviewed a mother whose son was hospitalized after purchasing and consuming a Diamond Shruumz product from a local smoke shop. She accused the company of misleading consumers by falsely claiming that their products did not contain illegal psilocybin mushrooms. Medical reports from the hospital indicated an overdose of psilocybin or psilocin.
As cases of poisoning related to Diamond Shruumz products persist, parents and guardians must remain vigilant. Authorities recommend keeping such products out of children’s reach and being cautious about the items bought from smoke shops or similar establishments. The ongoing investigations aim to ensure that such incidents do not recur, and regulatory actions will be taken to protect consumers from dangerous substances marketed deceptively as safe and natural.