Kansas Investigation Finds Popular O.P.M.S. Kratom Shots Secretly Contain Up to 16% Alcohol

Why it matters

Hundreds of kratom "shot" products being sold legally in Kansas vape shops were actually classified as alcoholic beverages under state law — and were being sold without alcohol licenses to anyone who walked in, including potentially minors.

The big picture

Kratom products already face scrutiny for their opioid-like effects, but this investigation reveals a separate regulatory failure: undisclosed alcohol content that legally transforms the products into regulated beverages. It highlights how kratom's unregulated status creates gaps across multiple legal frameworks, not just drug law.

Key findings

• Lab tests confirmed two O.P.M.S. products — Black and Gold Kratom Extract shots — contained between 15.7% and 16.15% ethanol alcohol
• Agents executed search warrants at 12 businesses across Kansas on March 11, seizing 1,006 bottles
• All 12 businesses were found in possession of the illegal alcoholic products
• Locations included stores in Lenexa, Olathe, Overland Park, El Dorado, Topeka, and other cities
• Criminal charges are expected to be submitted to county attorneys for prosecution
• The investigation was triggered by a formal complaint filed in September 2025

What they say

"Sales of unlawful alcoholic beverages by unlicensed businesses pose a clear risk to consumers and undermine the integrity of Kansas' regulated marketplace," said ABC Director Debbi Beavers.

Bottom line

Popular O.P.M.S. kratom shots contain alcohol concentrations comparable to wine — and were being sold without an alcohol license at vape shops across Kansas.