Date of effect: 17 April 2023
Attention
Importers of poppy seeds and brokers acting on their behalf.
Purpose
The purpose of this notice is to raise industry awareness of guidance material that has been developed to provide information on poppy seed safety and suitability for food use.
Key points
The guidance material provides information relevant to poppy seed producers, importers, suppliers, distributors and retailers and is available on the FSANZ website.
Importers of poppy seeds intended for human consumption should confirm with overseas suppliers that:
- the poppy seeds are safe and suitable for their intended use, and
- your customers are aware of the intended use of the seed you are supplying, for example through documentation supplied with the poppy seeds.
Background
Following recalls in Australia of poppy seeds involving thebaine toxicity in late 2022, guidance material has been developed to provide information on poppy seed safety and suitability for food use.
Poppy seeds themselves contain only small amounts of opium alkaloids. The latex residues remaining on the outside of the seed or plant material (other than the seed) can contain higher levels.
Symptoms of thebaine poisoning can include increased respiratory rate and muscle spasms, which can progress to seizures, breathing difficulty and unconsciousness.
It is important that only food grade poppy seeds are sold for human consumption.
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