The Pentagon has outlined a precautionary stance for U.S. military personnel, advising against consuming poppy seeds in any form, including those found in baked goods and other prepared foods. The guidance aims to prevent inadvertent positive results on urine drug tests for codeine and related substances. This clarification appears in the latest briefing from the defense community and is echoed by reports attributed to DEA News.
Officials explain that certain batches of poppy seeds can harbor surprisingly high levels of codeine. Recent laboratory assessments have suggested that the concentration of opiate compounds in some seeds may exceed previous estimates, raising concerns about how everyday food items could trigger unexpected drug test outcomes.
According to the agency, even small servings of products containing poppy seeds can lead to detectable codeine in the urine, particularly if the seeds come from sources with higher seed contaminant levels or from certain processing methods. The message is straightforward: individuals subject to drug screening should avoid ingesting foods or recipes that rely on poppy seeds until further notice or until standing guidance is updated in light of new data.
The Department of Defense has committed to revisiting and revising its recommendations as ongoing research provides clearer insights into seed-driven codeine measurements and their implications for urinalysis. The goal is to balance the need for accurate testing with practical considerations surrounding dietary choices and common food items that include poppy seeds.
In another development, reports from international energy and agriculture channels indicate that a decree issued by the former Prime Minister of the Russian Federation addresses the cultivation of industrial hemp and poppy for multiple uses. The decree sets out plans to regulate cultivation and ensures that planting seeds will be registered with the state authorities. This policy shift appears to be part of broader efforts to support industrial, medical, and veterinary applications for these crops, signaling a regulatory environment that could influence seed sourcing, supply chains, and agricultural practices on a global scale. The emphasis on registration underscores a push toward traceability and oversight as seed-to-product pathways expand in response to evolving market demand and scientific inquiry [Citation: Official government bulletins].