Health alert
- Status:
- Active
- Alert number:
- 20240627
- Date issued:
- 26 Jun 2024
- Issued by:
- Dr. Evelyn Wong, Acting Chief Health Officer
- Issued to:
- Health professionals and the Victorian community
Key messages
- There have been reports of people becoming severely unwell and requiring medical care following consumption of ‘Uncle Frog’s Mushroom Gummies’ in Australia.
- People are strongly advised not to consume these products.
- Anyone who develops unusual or severe symptoms after consuming these products should attend their nearest emergency department.
- People are advised to return or safely dispose of any remaining product.
- The Victorian Poisons Information Centre can be contacted 24/7 on 13 11 26 to provide more information about poisons and what to do in suspected cases of poisoning linked to this product.
What is the issue?
Since April 2024, there have been several hospital presentations linked to the consumption of ‘Uncle Frog’s Mushroom Gummies’ in Victoria and other Australian jurisdictions. These products include:
- Uncle Frog’s Mushroom Gummies - Cordyceps
- Uncle Frog’s Mushroom Gummies – Lion's Mane.
People are strongly advised not to consume these products. People have reported becoming unwell after consuming even a small amount of these products. Investigations are underway to try and determine what is contained in these products that may be making people become unwell.
From 26 June 2024, these products have been recalled and should be returned to the place of purchase for a full refund. Further information is available on the recall notice on the Food Standards Australia and New Zealand If unable to be returned, dispose of them safely away from children and pets.
Who is at risk?
People who have consumed “Uncle Frog’s Mushroom Gummies”.
Symptoms
People have reported symptoms and signs such as:
- nausea
- vomiting
- palpitations
- dizziness or light-headedness
- anxiety
- hallucinations
- seizure-like activity including involuntary limb or eye movements
- drowsiness or reduced consciousness.
Anyone who develops symptoms after consuming these products should seek medical care immediately.
Recommendations
For members of the public
- People are strongly advised not to consume “Uncle Frog’s Mushroom Gummies”.
- If you have any remaining product, return them to the place of purchase for a refund or dispose of them safely away from children or pets.
- If you have consumed these products and develop any unusual or severe symptoms, seek medical care immediately.
For help:
- Call Triple Zero (000) for emergency assistance
- Go to your nearest emergency department
- Call the Victorian Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.
If you or someone you know needs help with alcohol or drug use, call DirectLine on 1800 888 236 or visit directline.org.au for information and support to access treatment.
For health professionals
- Be aware for patients presenting with illness after consuming ‘Uncle Frog’s Mushroom Gummies’.
- For any patients presenting with compatible illness, inform the Victorian Poisons Information Centre on
13 11 26 who can provide clinical and specific testing advice. - Ensure to collect specific information about the consumed product including the name, ingredients, recommended and actual dose taken, and place of purchase. Where possible, obtain a sample or photos of the product and packaging.
Reviewed 27 June 2024