Children under influence by poppy seeds in food (Scientific Opinion)

By 23. December 2011Blog

Poppy seeds are obtained from the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum L.). They are used in bakery products, on top of dishes, in fillings of cakes and in desserts and to produce edible oil. In a scientific study, the EFSA Panel of Contaminants in the Food Chain (CONTAM Panel) established the acute reference dose (ARfD) of 10 μg morphine/kg b.w. Estimates of dietary exposure to morphine from foods containing poppy seed demonstrate that the ARfD can be exceeded during a single serving by some consumers, particularly children, across the EU.

Though this study was performed using very specific parameters, it should be kept in mind not to allow children too much of poppy seeds just in deep believe, they were harmless.

The Scientific Opinion with all results can be found here.