FDA: Indiana residents sickened by ‘microdose chocolate’

(WXIN/WTTV) — The FDA is warning about “microdose chocolate” bars and candy that cause people, including two Hoosiers, to fall ill after eating them.

In a Tuesday news release, the Food and Drug Administration warned consumers about Diamond Shruumz-brand chocolate bars, cones and gummies. The FDA is encouraging people to “not eat, sell or serve” any of the brand’s products as they investigate.

“Diamond Shruumz-brand products can be purchased online and in person at a variety of retail locations nationwide including smoke/vape shops, and at retailers that sell hemp-derived products,” the FDA said. “The full list of retailers is currently unknown.”

What is known is that the drug-infused candies have already caused some Indiana residents to get sick.

As of Tuesday, June 11, two Hoosiers had reported to the FDA that Diamond Shruumz products had caused an illness. Reports had also been made by 10 residents in Alabama, Arizona, Kentucky, Missouri, Nevada, Pennsylvania and South Carolina.

Photos of some of the products involved, provided by the FDA, can be seen below:

“All 12 people have reported seeking medical care; 10 have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported,” the release said. “FDA is working to determine the cause of these illnesses and is considering the appropriate next steps.”

The FDA provided a list of tips for anyone concerned:

• Consumers should check their homes and discard these products if found.
• These products may appeal to children and teenagers. Parents and caregivers should consider discussing the information in this advisory with their children and take extra care to avoid these products being consumed by younger people. 
• This product may appeal to children and teenagers as it is marketed as a candy.
• If you become ill after consuming these products, contact your healthcare provider and/or call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222. 

The status of the FDA’s investigation is active as of 4 p.m. Tuesday. No other information was immediately provided. To read the FDA’s release, click here.