An urgent recall has been issued across Australia for some poppy seeds.
At least 12 people in NSW have needed medical attention soon after ingesting poppy seeds, with additional cases nationally.
Poppy seed recall
Medical Director of the NSW Poisons Information Centre, A/Prof Darren Roberts, said in a statement the product was not considered safe to eat or drink as the chemical detected in the poppy seed product can be dangerous.
“We are urging anyone who experiences any unusual and severe symptoms to seek immediate medical attention by visiting their nearest Emergency Department. Call triple zero for emergency assistance,” he said.
Product information
Hoyts Food Manufacturing 100g sachet packet and 240g PET jar of the poppy seeds – sold at Woolworths and Coles across Australia.
Batch Codes:
28622, 29322, 29822 & 29922
Other brands:
Hoyts isn’t the only brand of poppy seed being recalled, with more brands being added to the Food Standards Australia (FSA) website.
Royal Fields Poppy Seeds
Basfoods International Pty Ltd is conducting a recall of Royal Fields Poppy Seeds 250g, 500g and 5kg. The products have been available for sale at Coles and independent food retailers in VIC. More information here.
East West Foods Wholesale
East West Foods Wholesale Pty Ltd is conducting a recall of Poppy Seeds 1kg. The product has been available for sale at Whole + Some Shop in Adelaide SA & Indian Spice Bazaar in Woodville Gardens SA. More information here.
Gaganis Premium Australian Poppy Seed
Gaganis Bros Imported Food Wholesalers Pty Ltd together with other businesses responsible for their brands and products, is conducting a coordinated recall of poppy seed. The Gaganis products have been available for sale at independent food retailers, online, and direct from Gaganis in SA. More information here.
Eumarrah Poppy Seeds
Eumarrah Poppy Seeds 250g. Best Before dates 7.10.2023 & 14.10.2023. The 250g product has been available for sale at independent food retailers including IGA & direct from Eumarrah stores in TAS. More information here.
Food safety hazard
The recall is due to the potential presence of a chemical (thebaine) due to unsafe poppy seeds entering the food supply, according to FSA.
Reported symptoms from consuming thebaine can include:
- severe muscle cramping, muscle spasms and abnormal movements
- seizures
- cardiac arrest
The NSW Poisons Information Centre can be contacted 24/7 on 13 11 26, and can provide information aboutwhat to do in suspected cases of poppy seed poisoning.
What to do if you have bought these poppy seeds
If you have purchased this product, it is unsafe to eat and should be returned to where you bought it for a full refund.
If you are concerned about your health, seek medical advice.
For further information, please contact:
Hoyts Food Manufacturing Pty Ltd
03 9555 0539
www.hoytsfood.com.au
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