Microdosing mushroom chocolates from Diamond Shruumz linked to illness, hospitalization
Diamond Shruumz chocolate bars, cones and gummies — microdosing products made in Santa Ana — have been linked to cases of severe illnesses, according to U.S. health agencies.
Officials from the California Department of Public Health said Friday that there have been several hospitalizations in 16 states and at least one poisoning in California linked to the mushroom products, according to an agency news release.
“These products have been linked to hospitalization and other serious side effects, putting the public at risk,” said Dr. Tomás Aragón, state public health officer and director of the Public Health Department. “California will not allow the distribution and sale of these unsafe products, and we will continue to work diligently with our local, state and federal partners to remove these products and to generate awareness and educate the public.”
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As of Monday, 26 people had been reported ill and 10 hospitalized in 16 states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Of those sickened, 25 have sought medical care. Several patients have needed intubation, mechanical ventilation and admission to an intensive care unit.
Symptoms have included seizures, loss of consciousness, confusion, sleepiness, agitation, abnormal heart rate, hyper/hypotension, nausea and vomiting, according to the CDPH.
The cause of the illnesses hasn’t been determined. Authorities advise against eating or selling the products and said any previously bought should be thrown away.
The CDPH has issued a notice of violation to the owner of Diamond Shruumz, and it was expected to issue a recall Friday, according to a news release. The company could face civil or criminal penalties.
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