Tag: Poppy seed tea

In 2022, a food safety alert was issued in Australia following several hospitalizations from homemade poppy seed tea, highlighting the severe danger of consuming certain batches of poppy seeds. Understanding the potential risks associated with these tiny seeds is crucial for preventing health emergencies and legal complications.

Reports from regulatory agencies like the EFSA have confirmed that poppy seeds can be contaminated with opium alkaloids during harvest. This is precisely why you can't eat too many poppy seeds, as overconsumption of certain types can lead to opioid exposure, health complications, or even false positive drug tests.

According to a 2022 report, poisonous poppy seeds sent dozens of people to the hospital in Australia, highlighting the extreme dangers of contaminated batches and consuming large quantities, especially as 'tea'. While small amounts of commercially processed seeds are safe, eating more poppy seeds can lead to serious health complications.

While poppy seeds are a staple in many cuisines, a lesser-known fact is that they can carry traces of opioid alkaloids from the poppy plant latex during harvesting. Understanding the potential side effects of poppy seeds, from false positive drug tests to more serious health risks associated with unwashed varieties, is crucial for informed consumption.