Study Reveals Misleading Claims in ‘Magic Mushroom’ Food Products

A recent study conducted in Portland, Oregon, tested 12 food products claimed to contain ‘magic mushrooms,’ but found no trace of the hallucinogenic compound psilocybin. Instead, seven of these products contained undisclosed active ingredients such as cannabis extract and unstudied psychoactive substances.

Absence of Psilocybin in Food Products

The study, published in JAMA Network Open, revealed that the magic mushrooms, typically containing psilocybin, were absent in samples purchased from retail stores in Portland. According to Professor Richard van Breemen from Oregon State University, none of the products showed traces of mushroom compounds of any kind or quality.

These findings highlight potential risks for consumers who rely on product labels without testing or verification, especially amid growing interest in using psilocybin for therapeutic psychological purposes.

Undisclosed Ingredients in Food Products

Researchers purchased 12 food products, including 11 candy pieces and one chocolate bar, advertised as containing ‘magic mushrooms.’ Surprisingly, after testing these products in a licensed facility, none showed the presence of psilocybin.

Despite the absence of psilocybin, other active ingredients were found in seven of these products, such as caffeine, kava extract, and cannabis extract. Four of the candy pieces contained no active ingredients at all.

Legal Challenges and Health Risks

In the United States, psilocybin and psilocin are classified as Schedule I drugs due to their potential for abuse and lack of federally recognized medical use. However, some states have legalized psilocybin under certain conditions, such as Oregon, which requires its use under supervision in licensed service centers.

This dynamic has led to increased illegal consumption of misleading products sold in retail stores, raising the risk of exposure to unstudied or even dangerous ingredients.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the prevalence of misleading food products sold as containing magic mushrooms, while in reality, they contain undisclosed and unstudied ingredients. With growing interest in psychoactive drugs for therapeutic purposes, there is a need for greater regulation and careful examination of market products to protect consumers and ensure their safety.