November 16, 2022
Queensland Health is urging shoppers to carefully check poppy seeds following a nationwide recall of products.
The recalled products are not safe to eat, and people who have purchased the recalled batches should throw them out or return them to the place of purchase for a refund.
Affected products are listed on the Food Standards website.
Currently, Food Standards have issued recalls on:
- Eumarrah Poppy Seeds,
- Hoyts Poppy Seeds,
- Gaganis Premium Australian Poppy Seed
- Royal Fields Poppy Seeds, and
- Poppy seeds packed by East West Foods Wholesale Pty Ltd
A joint investigation with other States and food safety authorities found that non-food grade poppy seeds have been sold as food grade products.
These seeds contain unusually high levels of a naturally occurring chemical (thebaine) which is likely causing this toxicity.
Authorities have warned the recalled products should not be consumed in any amount.
Reports of unusual and severe symptoms following poppy seed consumption have resulted in at least six people requiring medical attention in Queensland, with additional cases reported nationally.
Dr Peter Aitken, the Acting General Manager of Queensland Public Health and Scientific Services, said the product was not considered safe to consume as the high levels of thebaine detected in could be dangerous.
“We urge anyone who experiences any unusual and severe symptoms to seek immediate medical attention by attending an Emergency Department or calling triple zero for emergency assistance,” he said.
Reported symptoms can be severe, including:
- Muscle cramping, muscle spasms and abnormal movements
- Seizures
- Cardiac arrest
The Queensland Poisons Information Centre can be contacted 24 hours a day on 13-11-26 and can provide more information about poisons and what to do in suspected cases of poppy seed poisoning.
Queensland Health is working with all stakeholders to investigate the issue further.
- External link: Severe Reactions After Consuming Poppy Seed Tea
