An urgent recall has been issued on a number of poppy seeds batches across Australia, with fears of severe poisoning if ingested.
Hoyts products in both the 100g pack and 240g jar have been impacted, due to the potential presence of a chemical (thebaine) from unsafe poppy seeds entering the food supply.
The products have been available for sale at Coles & Woolworths nationally.
Affected batches include 28622, 29322, 29822 & 29922.
In a statement from Food Standards Australia and New Zealand, the presence of the chemical may cause serious illness.
“Food products containing thebaine may cause illness if consumed,”
“Severe poisoning soon after ingestion has occurred in some people who have consumed large amounts of poppy seeds.”
Consumers should not eat these products and should return to the place of purchase for a full refund and safe disposal.
Any consumers concerned about their health should seek medical advice.
Food Recall – Hoyts Food Manufacturing Pty Ltd is recalling its poppy seeds, sachet packet and PET jar (Batch Codes: 28622, 29322, 29822 & 29922) due to the potential presence of a chemical (thebaine) due to unsafe poppy seeds entering the food supply. https://t.co/sU93KRHmRg pic.twitter.com/4FpRmbI0u5
— FoodStandardsAusNZ (@FSANZnews) November 15, 2022
The recall follows the hospitalisation of up to 19 people across Australia following poppy seed ingestion, sparking health warnings.
NSW Health, Victorian Health and WA Health have issued health warnings, with multiple people presenting to hospital after consuming home-brewed poppy seed tea.
