A national recall of poppy seeds was announced today, with consumers advised not to eat affected products.
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is coordinating the consumer recall of several brands and products due to the potential presence of thebaine, a toxic chemical found in unsafe poppy seeds.
Anyone who has consumed the recalled products and experienced unusual and/or severe symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
Symptoms can include breathing difficulty, breathing more rapidly than normal, muscle spasms and unconsciousness.
The recalled brands, available in retailers nationally, is:
- Hoyt's Poppy Seeds
- Gaganis Premium Australian Poppy Seed
It is anticipated additional products may be added to this recall.
Cases of illness among people who have consumed poppy seeds have been reported in Western Australia, New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and the Australian Capital Territory.
consumers will not be able to tell which poppy seeds have high thebaine content by looking at the seeds and are advised not to eat them. Recalled products can be returned to the place of purchase for a full refund.
State and territory food authorities are investigating the cause of the contamination.