Analysis of ‘magic mushroom’ edibles finds no psilocybin but many undisclosed active ingredients

Magic mushroom edibles are a popular item sold at smoke shops and convenience stores, but a recent study led by a scientist from Oregon State University College of Pharmacy has revealed that these products may not actually contain any psilocybin, the hallucinogenic compound found in magic mushrooms. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, analyzed 12 gummies and chocolates labeled as magic mushrooms purchased in Portland and found that none of them contained psilocybin or muscimol, another psychoactive compound.

Instead, the researchers discovered a range of undisclosed active ingredients in the products, including caffeine, hemp and kava extracts, and a class of chemicals called “syndelics,” which are synthetic psychedelics inspired by compounds like psilocybin and LSD. While these compounds may have therapeutic potential, they have not undergone the necessary safety and efficacy evaluations required for human use.

Psilocybin is currently being investigated for its potential to treat depression and substance use disorders and is legal for medical use in Oregon. However, the lack of standardization and adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices in the production of psilocybin products poses a risk to consumer safety. Advances in analytical chemistry are needed to detect new syndelics and other adulterants in these products, support law enforcement and regulatory agencies, and assist healthcare providers in cases of overdoses.

The study underscores the importance of collaboration between academia, public health, and industry to develop and validate detection methods using advanced analytical instrumentation. By combining different types of labs’ unique capabilities, researchers can conduct retrospective analyses and real-time public health surveillance to protect consumers from potentially harmful substances in magic mushroom products.

The lead researcher, Richard van Breemen, emphasized the need for improved detection methods to address the growing concerns surrounding magic mushroom products. In 2024 alone, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 180 emergency cases related to these products, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced safety measures.

Collaborating with van Breemen on the study were researchers from Rose City Laboratories in Portland and Shimadzu Scientific Instruments of Columbia, Maryland. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the composition of magic mushroom edibles and the risks associated with consuming these products.

For more information on this study, you can refer to the publication in JAMA Network Open (DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.31345). This research was conducted by Oregon State University and underscores the importance of consumer safety and regulatory oversight in the production of psilocybin products.