National poppy seed recall: check if your batch has been affected
At least 12 people in New South Wales needed medical attention shortly after ingesting poppy seeds, with additional cases nationwide.
Recall of poppy seeds
NSW Poisons Information Center Medical Director, A/Prof Darren Roberts, said in a press release the product has not been deemed safe to eat or drink as the chemical detected in the poppy seed product may be hazardous.
“We urge anyone who has unusual and serious symptoms to seek immediate medical attention by going to the nearest emergency department. Call triple zero for emergency help,” he said.
Product information
Hoyts Food Manufacturing 100g sachet and 240g PET jar of poppy seeds – sold at Woolworths and Coles across Australia.
Batch codes:
28622, 29322, 29822 and 29922
Other brands:
Hoyts is not the only brand of poppy seeds to be recalled, with other brands being added to the Australian Food Standards (FSA) website.
Royal Field Poppy Seeds
Basfoods International Pty Ltd is recalling Royal Fields poppy seeds 250g, 500g and 5kg. Products are available for sale at Coles and independent VIC food retailers. More information here.
East-west food wholesale
East West Foods Wholesale Pty Ltd is recalling poppy seeds 1 kg. The product is available for sale at Whole + Some Shop in Adelaide SA and Indian Spice Bazaar in Woodville Gardens SA. More information here.
Gaganis Premium Australian Poppy Seeds
Gaganis Bros Imported Food Wholesalers Pty Ltd, in conjunction with other companies responsible for their brands and products, is conducting a coordinated recall of poppy seeds. Gaganis products are available for sale at independent food retailers, online and directly from Gaganis in South Africa. More information here.
Eumarrah Poppy Seeds
Eumarrah poppy seeds 250g. Expiry dates 7.10.2023 & 14.10.2023. The 250g product was available for sale at independent food retailers including IGA and direct from Eumarrah stores to 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 of thebaine consumption may include:
- severe muscle cramps, muscle spasms, and abnormal movements
- seizures
- heart attack
The The NSW Poisons Information Center can be contacted 24/7 on 13 11 26, and can provide information aboutwhat to do if poppy seed poisoning is suspected.
What to do if you bought these poppy seeds
If you purchased this product, it is unfit for consumption and should be returned to the place of purchase for a full refund.
If you are worried about your health, consult a doctor.
For more information, please contact:
Hoyts Food Manufacturing Pty Ltd
03 9555 0539
www.hoytsfood.com.au
