For decades, the Netherlands has been known for its flexible legislation regarding (soft) drugs. Currently, the Netherlands is still the only country in the world where magic truffles are sold legally in physical stores and via the Internet. Still, there are some rules that sellers have to follow from the Dutch law. Sometimes it can be unclear what is and what is not allowed with regard to psilocybin, the active substance in truffles, in the Netherlands. If this applies to you as well, then this blog can clarify this gray area.
Shrooms vs. Truffles
When it comes to psychedelic fungi, most people, especially non-Dutch people, will be familiar with mushrooms: magic mushrooms, or toadstools. Although magic mushrooms, like truffles, have psilocybin and psilocin as active ingredients, Dutch law distinguishes between the two. Mushrooms grow above ground and are on average 3 to 5 times more potent than truffles. Truffles, on the other hand, grow underground. Until 2008, magic mushrooms, both dried and fresh, were sold legally in smartshops. At that time, truffles were actually not commercially available either. However, due to some incidents (disputing the alleged role of the psychedelic mushroom), it was forbidden to sell fresh or dried mushrooms any longer. However, an alternative to this was found, which we know as truffles, or to be more precise "sclerotia," which, like magic mushrooms, contain psilocin and psilocybin.
Only fresh Truffles legal for sale?
The truffles you find in smartshops or online may only be sold fresh. Any form of processing is prohibited. This includes processing them into a tincture and into edible products such as chocolate and drinks. Also, truffles may not be dried. Therefore, you always get truffles in vacuum-drawn bags that guarantee freshness. However, it is allowed to offer different portions, for example in 10, 15 or 22 grams. Microdosing packages are also allowed, where the truffles are often packed per 1 gram. Combining microdose truffles with other products is allowed, as long as the truffles are not processed and are therefore packed separately.
The Dutch Opium Act
The substances psilocin and psilocybin are still classified as hard drugs according to the Opium Act, and are therefore on list 1 of this law. Mushrooms containing these substances, however, are on list 2 of the Opium Act. However, it is not prohibited to sell fresh truffles, and the sale of mushroom grow kits is also legal. These products may only be sold in specially licensed stores, or smartshops. In addition, the sale of truffles and cultivation sets is only intended for people who are at least 18 years old. There is no set maximum amount of truffles a person may buy or carry.
Conclusion:
Navigating the legal landscape surrounding the sale of magic truffles in the Netherlands can be complex. While these psychedelic substances are legally available for purchase, strict regulations dictate their distribution and use. Understanding the distinction between truffles and mushrooms, as well as adhering to Dutch laws such as the Opium Act, is essential for both sellers and consumers. As long as these guidelines are followed, individuals can safely explore the unique effects of magic truffles while staying within the bounds of the law.
