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Within a long-term and systematic inspection activity focused on observance applicable legislation, the Czech Agriculture and Food Inspection Authority (CAFIA) checked in particular importers and processor of poppy seed. Poppy seed intended for food industry is a traditional commodity of domestic growers and processors and that is why CAFIA pays an increased attention to the inspections of this segment. At the same time, there is a current increase of violations related to import of waste technical poppy seed from abroad which is presented as domestic. Technical poppy seed is often subsequently adjusted by means of thermostabilisation so that it could be offered as a foodstuff.

CAFIA has been checked 551 lots of poppy seeds so far, the inspections were focused on so-called traceability, i.e. whether the operators were able to prove the origin of the offered poppy seed. The inspectors revealed the 2 operators were not able to prove the origin of their poppy seed. In further 13 cases the inspectors proved that the operators failed to fulfill their obligation to announce the import from abroad at least 24 hours before the arrival of the consignment as laid down by Decree No. 172/2015. Furthermore, 53 operators failed to comply with their obligation to register their activities at CAFIA.

Subsequent analysis was focused on safety of poppy seed, in particular on verification of the presence of morphine alkaloids, heavy metals and pesticide residues. In 3 cases CAFIA proved presence of picoxystrobine (a pesticide with fungicide effect) exceeding the limit. One sample was contaminated with seeds of goosefoot and pigweed exceeding the limits and 2 lots showed undesirable sensory modification – smell after rancidity. CAFIA imposed measures to prevent repeating the situation.

CAFIA also found out that 2 lots amounting to hundreds of kilograms were not labelled as poppy seed adjusted by thermostabilisation. It is a process of artificial reduction of the content of morphine in poppy seed which is primarily grown for technical – pharmaceutical purposes. This poppy seed is subsequently adjusted for secondary use in food industry. In case thermostabilisation is used, it is necessary to indicate this fact on the labelling so that appropriate informing of purchasers and consumers was thus ensured as they have a right to be informed that primarily technical poppy seed is concerned.

With regard to the results of the inspections, CAFIA will continue with intensive inspections of this segment.