Trader Joe’s seasoning contains poppy seeds, CNB directs removal of online listings

The Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) has directed the removal of online listings selling Trader Joe’s Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend.

The seasoning blend contains poppy seeds, a prohibited good, CNA and The Straits Times reported.

South Korea

This comes after South Korean authorities blocked the sale of the seasoning blend, The Korea Herald reported.

Local authorities found that the product contained poppy seeds.

The seasoning blend also tested positive for morphine and codeine, which are controlled narcotic substances in South Korea and Singapore.

Investigating

In response to queries, CNB said it is investigating reports of the product being sold online.

It will take necessary actions accordingly, including removing the items from sale.

Poppy seeds are a prohibited good as they come from the opium poppy.

They can also contain traces of controlled drugs.

Any company or person intending to import poppy seeds or foods containing poppy seeds into Singapore must apply to CNB and submit samples to the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) for analysis.

If cleared of any controlled substances such as morphine or codeine, CNB will give its endorsement and allow the product to be imported.

"CNB would like to remind importers and retailers that any product or foodstuff containing controlled drugs, even in trace amounts, should not be imported for sale," it said.

Members of the public who bought the seasoning blend are advised not to consume it and should dispose of it.

"Singapore adopts a strict policy of zero tolerance towards controlled drugs. 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," it added.

Trader Joe’s

According to checks by Mothership on Trader Joe’s website, the seasoning blend ingredient list comprises poppy seeds, sesame seeds, sea salt flakes, dried minced garlic, dried minced onion and black sesame seeds.

“This is the only Everything Seasoning you'll ever need for decorating and yummifying the tops of bagels-but that's not everything. This simple (yet exemplary) blend of sesame seeds (white and black), poppy seeds, dried garlic & onion, and sea salt flakes is all you need for bringing that crunchy, roasted, savory flavor to grilled chicken, buttered popcorn, baked potatoes, creamy dips, pizza dough, salad dressings, pasta, mac & cheese, or panko-breaded anything,” the product description read.

The product is only available in its physical stores in the United States, and it is sold for US$1.99 (S$2.55).

According to The Korea Herald, South Korean police noted that some sellers had brought the seasoning into South Korea as a souvenir from overseas before listing it for sale.

The product had also been previously listed in Singapore on platforms, such as Lazada and Carousell.

As of writing, these listings have been taken down.