Health Alert activated over toxic substances found in popcorn from three brands
The Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN) has issued a food alert for the presence of tropane alkaloids, toxic natural compounds, found in popcorn maize imported from Argentina and sold under the brands The Italian Food Shop, Veggy Duck, and Easy Vibes.
The warning, communicated through the European Food Alert Network (RASFF) by Italian authorities, has been circulated in Spain to prevent consumption of the affected products due to potential adverse health effects.
AESAN is urging consumers to check their cupboards and avoid consuming the listed popcorn batches. The products, sold for home use at room temperature, are being withdrawn from sale through the Coordinated Rapid Information Exchange System (SCIRI).
Affected Products
1. The Italian Food Shop – Popping Corn
- Lot: 171/25
- Best before: 31/12/2026
- Pack size: 500g
2. Veggy Duck – Popcorn
- Lots: 162/25 (BB 31/12/2026) and 190/25 (BB 31/01/2027)
- Pack size: 1kg
3. Easy Vibes – Popping Corn
- Lots: 155/25, 162/25, 171/25 (BB 31/12/2026), and 183/25, 190/25 (BB 31/01/2027)
- Pack size: 900g
What Are Tropane Alkaloids?
Tropane alkaloids are naturally occurring toxins found in certain plants such as deadly nightshade (belladonna), thorn apple (datura), and mandrake.
Contamination can occur accidentally during harvesting or processing when fragments of these toxic plants mix with food crops.
Consumption of contaminated food may cause dry mouth, blurred vision, headache, confusion, rapid heartbeat, or drowsiness. In high doses, the effects can be serious or even life-threatening.
AESAN emphasises the importance of not consuming the affected products and advises anyone who has eaten them and experiences symptoms to seek medical advice immediately.
Share:
