California Health Officials Issue Warning About Mind-Altering Chemical Discovered in Chocolate Bars

November 23, 2024 TruthUSA

Authorities warn that some San Diego-based PolkaDot Shruumz chocolate bars may contain psychoactive drugs.

Californians were cautioned on Nov. 22 not to consume PolkaDot brand Mushroom Magic Blend chocolate bars due to concerns about the presence of psychoactive drugs.

The Department of Public Health stated that the PolkaDot chocolate bars were labeled to contain an unsafe food additive called amanita muscaria, a type of mushroom.

Laboratory tests revealed the presence of an additional synthetic psychoactive drug in the bars according to the state.

These bars were distributed by San Diego-based PolkaDot Shruumz to smoke shops and online, reaching various locations in California and other states.

Over $3 million worth of the candy was seized and voluntarily destroyed, as reported by the state.

According to the statement, “The responsible firms may face further enforcement actions, including civil or criminal penalties, pending additional investigation by the state’s health department and the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department.”

The adulterated chocolate bars, produced in various flavors including Belgian milk chocolate caramel peanut twist, Belgian milk chocolate intense dark, and Belgian milk chocolate Maui coconut twist, weighed 2.1 ounces each.

State Public Health Officer Thomas Aragon said, “The California Department of Public Health appreciates the joint investigative work conducted with the San Diego County sheriff’s office. Partnerships like this play a big role in the department’s efforts to protect the public from unsafe foods.”

Despite the warnings, the company appeared to still be selling the chocolate bars on its website for $20 each on Friday.

Representatives from the company did not respond to requests for comment on Friday.

If anyone experiences any negative effects after consuming the chocolate bars, they are advised to consult with their healthcare providers, according to the state.

Those who come across the products being sold are urged to call the health department’s hotline at 800-495-3232, or submit a report.

California health officials warned the public that three flavors of PolkaDot Mushroom Magic Blend chocolate bars contain psychoactive drugs. (California Department of Public Health) — California health officials warned the public that three flavors of PolkaDot Mushroom Magic Blend chocolate bars contain psychoactive drugs. California Department of Public Health

Possessing magic mushrooms and psychedelic mushrooms is illegal in California. Those found with small amounts for personal use may face misdemeanor fines and jail time.

In 2023, the state’s lawmakers attempted to pass a bill to legalize some naturally occurring psychedelics, but Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed Senate Bill 58. The bill, proposed by San Francisco state Sen. Scott Wiener, aimed to allow individuals 21 and older to possess, transport, or cultivate a specific amount of psychedelic substances for personal use starting Jan. 1, 2025.

In his veto message, the governor highlighted the need for regulations and guidelines before considering legalization, despite the positive effects shown in medical research for conditions such as depression, PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and addiction.

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