CNB investigating online sale of Trader Joe’s seasoning product containing poppy seeds
Poppy seeds are prohibited here, and CNB said it will take necessary actions accordingly.
The Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) in Singapore is probing reports of a bagel seasoning product, Trader Joe's Everything But The Bagel, being sold on online platforms in the country. This seasoning, which contains poppy seeds, is classified as a prohibited good due to its potential to contain narcotic substances derived from the opium poppy. The CNB spokesperson confirmed the investigation on August 7 following inquiries from The Straits Times.
On August 6, South Korean authorities took action by halting the sale of the same seasoning on an online second-hand marketplace, after detecting the presence of narcotic substances, including morphine and codeine, through analysis by the National Forensic Service. These substances are controlled and prohibited in South Korea. Some sellers had acquired the seasoning as souvenirs from their travels, listed it for resale in South Korea, and subsequently brought it back to the country.
Upon contacting The Straits Times on August 7, the spokesperson emphasized Singapore's zero-tolerance stance towards controlled drugs. The possession, consumption, importation, exportation, manufacturing, and trafficking of any controlled drug, even in trace amounts, is punishable under the Misuse of Drugs Act. The CNB stated it would remind importers and retailers about the stringent regulations concerning the import of products containing controlled drugs. Anyone who has purchased the seasoning is advised not to consume it and to dispose of it properly.
The public can seek guidance from the CNB by contacting them at 1800-325-6666 or submitting a report through the CNB's online feedback system at eservices.cnb.gov.sg/feedback.
Written by urgent.news from Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written; read the original for the full account.
