“May cause illness if consumed.”

Hoyts poppy seeds have been recalled nationwide after the product was found to contain a “severely poisonous” chemical.

Sold at both Coles and Woolworths and produced by Hoyts Food Manufacturing, the seeds could prove very harmful if ingested in high doses.

“The recall is due to the potential presence of a chemical (thebaine) due to unsafe poppy seeds entering the food supply,” Food Standards Australia and New Zealand said.

“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.

The affected products. Image: Food Standards Australia and New Zealand
The affected products. Image: Food Standards Australia and New Zealand

“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.

Medical Director of the NSW Poisons Information Centre, A/Prof Darren Roberts, said the product was not considered safe to eat or to 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,” NSW Health reports the Director as saying.

Reported symptoms can be severe, including:

• severe muscle cramping, muscle spasms and abnormal movements 

• seizures 

• cardiac arrest

For further information regarding the poppy seed recall contact:

Hoyts Food Manufacturing Pty Ltd
03 9555 0539
www.hoytsfood.com.au​

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Images: Pexels / Supplied

By Ally Parker

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