contaminated spinach may have caused hallucinations, delirium in australia
less than a week after the recall, at least 164 people have reported symptoms after consuming the spinach in new south wales
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riviera farms in australia recalled spinach products on dec. 16 after it appeared they were "contaminated with a weed which can have health consequences if consumed."
a producer in australia is recalling spinach products after dozens of people had toxic reactions, including possible hallucinations, delirium, rapid heartbeat and blurred vision.
riviera farms announced the recall on dec. 16, saying they were following advice of the new south wales ministry of health.
“it appears these products, which were grown on a farm in victoria and shipped to stores in nsw, have been contaminated with a weed which can have health consequences if consumed,” said riviera farms in a statement.
less than a week after the recall, up to 164 people have reported symptoms after consuming the spinach in new south wales, of which at least 42 have sought medical attention, according to nsw health. nine people in sydney needed medical attention “after developing poisoning soon after eating the product,” and 20 people in victoria also sought emergency medical care, media outlet 9news reported.
the producer’s only direct major retail customer of the spinach is costco, they said. however, riviera farms spinach is used by other customers as well, to make salads or salad mixes. coles supermarkets announced a recall, as did woolworths.
“the advice to our customers remains to recall potentially contaminated spinach products from their shelves, and to advise their own customers to do the same,” riviera farms said.
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reported symptoms include delirium or confusion, hallucinations, dilated pupils, rapid heartbeat, flushed face, blurred vision and dry mouth.
anyone who has the spinach should throw it out or return it for a refund, according to an advisory on the australian government’s website. the cases of poisonings are being investigated.
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