A public health alert and a national recall for a number of poppy seed products have been issued after reports of poisoning emerged from the consumption of home-brewed teas made with poppy seeds.
A joint investigation by NSW Health with other states and territories and food safety authorities found that the poppy seeds in question were not of food grade and had entered the supply chain, sold commercially as a food-grade product.
An ongoing investigation has revealed the products contain an unusually high level of thebaine, a naturally occurring chemical that can cause poisoning. This means products made with the seeds should not be consumed in any amount.
Victoria’s department of health described the teas to have “an unusual dark brown colour and bitter taste in the wash/tea after brewing” indicating unusual toxicity.
“This supply chain is complex and the investigation to find out which brands and which exact batches are affected is ongoing,” the department said in a statement.
Consumers are urged to seek urgent medical assistance if they experience symptoms such as severe muscle cramping, muscle spasms, abnormal movements, seizures and cardiac arrest.
At least 12 people in NSW, 11 people in Victoria and two people in Western Australia required medical attention as they developed poisoning and reactions soon after ingestion.
Prof Darren Roberts, medical director of the NSW poisons information centre, said the product is not safe to eat or to drink as the chemical detected in the poppy seed product can be dangerous.
Victorian health authorities have advised consumers to avoid consumption of poppy seeds purchased since September 2022, until the investigation is concluded.
- Five brands have recalled their poppy seed products from major supermarkets and independent retailers:
- Hoyts Poppy Seeds – Batch Codes 28622, 29322, 29822 & 29922. The product was sold at Coles and Woolworths stores nationwide.
- Gaganis Premium Australian Poppy Seed – All Best Before dates from 1 September 2023 up to and including 8 November 2023, July 2024 & October 2024. The product was sold at independent food retailers, online and directly from Gaganis in SA.
- East West Foods Wholesale Poppy Seeds 1Kg – sold at Whole + Some Shop in Adelaide SA & Indian Spice Bazaar in Woodville Gardens SA. with best before dates of 22/07/24.
- Basfoods International’s Royal Fields Poppy Seeds in 250g, 500g and 5kg with a best-before date of 25/6/2024.
- Eumarrah Poppy Seeds with best-before dates of 7.10.2023 & 14.10.2023. It was sold at independent food retailers including IGA stores and directly from Eumarrah stores in Tasmania.
Affected products will be updated on the Food Standards Australia and New Zealand website.
