Singapore and S Korea pull Trader Joe's seasoning over poppy seeds
Trader Joe's Everything But the Bagel seasoning contains poppy seeds which are banned in both countries.
Singapore and South Korea have removed Trader Joe's Everything But the Bagel seasoning from online marketplaces due to its poppy seed content.
The seasoning blend, which also includes sesame seeds, sea salt, minced garlic, and minced onion, was launched by the American grocery chain Trader Joe's in 2017.
Poppy seeds are prohibited in both nations because, despite not naturally containing opiates, they can become contaminated with opiates from the poppy plant's fluid during harvesting.
Singapore's Central Narcotics Bureau announced on Wednesday that over 20 online listings for the popular seasoning have been taken down.
Last week, Seoul authorities reported that the seasoning tested positive for morphine and codeine, opiates found in the plant's sap.
Singaporean authorities have advised anyone possessing bottles of the seasoning to dispose of them.
According to a CNA report, the narcotics bureau stated, "Singapore adopts a strict policy of zero tolerance towards controlled drugs."
It added, "The possession, consumption, importation, exportation, manufacturing and trafficking of any controlled drug, even in trace amounts, is an offence under the Misuse of Drugs Act."
In South Korea, investigators noted that some individuals brought the seasoning back as souvenirs from international trips before listing it for resale.
A report by The Korea Herald indicated that some did so unknowingly, while others were aware it contained controlled substances.
A police official cautioned, "Even if a product is legally sold overseas, it may be classified as a narcotic substance or a prohibited import in Korea, so particular caution is required."