You might have seen it in the news that the FDA has recently targeted a popular category of psychoactive edibles, notably those containing Amanita muscaria, the iconic red-capped mushroom, after a series of illnesses and suspected deaths.
Last week, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned food manufacturers that Amanita muscaria and its compounds are unauthorized for use in food This decision follows a comprehensive review of scientific evidence, which concluded that these ingredients fail to meet established safety standards.
*Note – Vital Reset – only uses psilocybe cubensis mushrooms per Oregon Health Authority rules . Although there are several mushroom species that contain psilocybin, we only use legal and regulated product that has been tested for potency and safety.
Cultural Significance and Current Usage
The Amanita muscaria mushroom, also known as “fly agaric,” is steeped in considerable folklore. Its distinctive white-spotted cap has permeated popular culture, making appearances in the Mario video game franchise and even as emojis.
Furthermore, unlike psilocybin, the active ingredient in”magic mushrooms,” Amanita muscaria is not classified as a controlled substance. Consequently, as a result, it has found its way into various edibles marketed as cognitive enhancing “nootropic” or “microdosing” blends. Moreover, these products, often packaged in eye-catching, psychedelic-themed designs, are readily available at convenience stores, smoke and vape shops, and online.
In Siberia, reindeer actively seek out and consume Amanita muscaria for its psychoactive effects. The mushroom’s compounds, such as muscimol and ibotenic acid, induce altered states of consciousness. Indigenous peoples have observed this behavior for centuries, intertwining it with shamanic traditions. These cultures believe the reindeer’s consumption of Amanita muscaria has influenced human use of the mushroom in rituals and ceremonies, where it was consumed for its hallucinogenic properties and to facilitate spiritual experiences.
Images: left: Circa 1910’s holiday postcards with mushrooms. right: Mario with mushroom from the Nintendo game franchise
FDA’s Safety Concerns and Market Implications
In its warning letter, the FDA emphasized that these edibles are marketed as “psychedelic” or “legal psychedelics.” This marketing approach, coupled with numerous reports of adverse events, has prompted the FDA to scrutinize the mushroom’s safety. “I feel it’s the right call,”, said Eric Leas, an epidemiologist at the University of California, San Diego. “It could potentially have very large implications for this market.”
Unlike psilocybin, which has been extensively studied and used in clinical trials, Amanita Muscaria is not listed as a controlled substance. This is leading to individuals and companies who are looking to make a quick buck by adding these adulterants to popular edible products like chocolates and gummies by labeling them as “nootropics” or designer supplements used to enhance mental cognition or give psychedelic effects.
Health Incidents and Recalls
Controversy surrounding these products intensified earlier this year when poison centers across the country started receiving multiple reports of hospitalizations linked to edibles marketed under the brand name Diamond Shruumz. This led to the recall of the products made by the parent company Prophet Premium Blends, (who as of this writing has removed all content from their website).
Testing revealed that these edibles contained muscimol, an active ingredient in Amanita muscaria, along with other substances. Notably, these included a synthetic version of psilocybin, the prescription anticonvulsant drug pregabalin, and the supplement kava.
Image: Diamond Shruumz branded line of edibles
What’s Next?
Given the FDA’s findings, the agency is now prohibiting the use of muscimol, ibotenic acid, and muscarine due safety concerns. Here at Vital Reset, we only use psilocybin mushrooms grown and tested in Oregon state licensed providers and would never use the Amanita Muscaria mushroom or its analytes. Licensed facilitators consult with individuals seeking treatment. Every treatment takes place in a licensed service center under the facilitator’s guidance.
Click here to see our list of licensed facilitators.
Stay informed about the products you consume. Check HERE for the latest FDA updates on food safety recalls.
