JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Missouri’s Attorney General has initiated an investigation into six companies for allegedly selling kratom products that could pose serious health risks to consumers. The announcement, made by Attorney General Catherine Hanaway, highlights concerns about the marketing and safety of these products, which are often advertised as natural supplements.
Kratom, derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa plant, is marketed by some as a remedy for various ailments. However, Hanaway emphasized that many kratom products contain compounds similar to opioids, raising alarms about their potential dangers. “We are worried that Missourians are being misled into believing these substances are innocuous when they may be harmful,” she said, underscoring the absence of Food and Drug Administration approval and safety testing.
The investigation has led to the submission of Civil Investigative Demands to six companies, identified by the Attorney General’s Office as potentially violating state laws. Among those under scrutiny is MNG 2005 Inc., known as CBD Kratom, one of the nation’s largest kratom distributors. Other companies include The Green Dragon LLC, Emporium Inc., Moonlight Smoke Shop LLC, CBD American Shaman LLC, and Shaman Botanicals LLC.
Hanaway pointed out that two of these firms are based in Kansas City and are involved in the production and distribution of products containing 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a particularly potent psychoactive component of kratom. This chemical mimics opioid effects and has been found at levels much higher than those naturally occurring in the kratom plant, raising significant health concerns.
Kratom use has been linked to a range of severe side effects, including dependency, seizures, heart complications, liver toxicity, and even death. Hanaway indicated that the growing popularity of these products among Missouri consumers—facilitated by both retail locations and online sales—makes the investigation all the more urgent.
The Attorney General’s investigation aims to ensure transparency and safety in the kratom market. Companies are required to disclose detailed information about their manufacturing processes, ingredient lists, and any safety claims made in their marketing. Investigators are particularly interested in whether these companies have failed to inform consumers about the presence of dangerous substances like 7-OH.
“This office is committed to protecting the public,” Hanaway stated. “When businesses sell unregulated substances and conceal their risks, they breach the trust of Missouri residents. We will thoroughly investigate these matters and take necessary action to safeguard families from potentially hazardous products.”
Missouri consumers who believe they have been misled or affected by kratom products are encouraged to report their experiences to the Attorney General’s Office. This investigation serves as a proactive step to address consumer safety amid mounting concerns over the use and marketing of kratom in the state.