Subra: Addiction unlikely

PUTRAJAYA: The consumption of poppy seeds may result in addiction only when eaten in very large amounts and also frequently.

This, however, was highly unlikely in Malaysia as poppy seeds were used sparingly to merely enhance the taste of dishes, explained Datuk Seri Dr S. Subramaniam.

The Health Minister said there have been concerns whether a person could get addicted to opiate derivatives that can be found in poppy seeds or better known locally as kas kas.

“There is a very low content of morphine-like compound in it, so unless you frequently take huge amounts of poppy seeds, chances of you becoming addicted to them are low,” he told reporters yesterday after the Cabinet meeting.

Dr Subramaniam said poppy seeds were commonly used as a spice and flavour enhancer, adding that those who prepared dishes added only a pinch as putting too much of the ingredient would alter the taste.

He also pointed out that the US Food and Drug Administration allowed the use of poppy seeds as they were considered to be a safe product.

“The issue cropped up a few years ago and the ministry decided not to ban its use and import. For the time being, we don’t intend to change that. We will not ban the product for now but will monitor the situation closely for any abuse,” Dr Subrama­niam assured the public.

He said the authorities would act against food providers found to be intentionally using poppy seeds in excess amounts, and urged the public to report any suspected abuse.

The ministry, he added, was empowered under the Food Safety Act to act against infringement of consumers’ safety.

Police have detected cases where poppy seeds added to cakes showed up positive for morphine during drug screening.

Kuala Lumpur Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department chief Senior Asst Comm Wan Abdullah Ishak said on Tuesday while it was not illegal to consume poppy seeds in Malaysia, it could show up in a urine test if ingested, landing consumers in trouble with the authorities.

He warned that “offenders” could be charged in court, under Section 15(1) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, “even if they denied it”.

They face up to two years’ jail or RM5,000 fine, for taking drugs.