Recalls Issued for Chia Seeds and Chewable Tablets
Aldi Ireland has recalled its "The Foodie Market Milled Chia Seeds" due to potential Salmonella contamination. Separately, Shaman Botanicals' "Advanced Alkaloids Chewable Tablets" have been recalled because they contain a higher-than-labeled dose of the chemical 7-OH. Consumers are advised to return the products and discontinue use.
- The recalled Aldi chia seed batch has a best-before date of February 2027. Symptoms of Salmonella infection typically appear 12 to 72 hours after consumption and include diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. - This is not an isolated incident for chia seeds; in May 2024, Walmart recalled "Great Value Organic Black Chia Seeds" due to Salmonella risk, a recall later classified as the highest risk level by the FDA. Another recall for organic chia seeds from Navitas Organics occurred in January 2026, also for potential Salmonella contamination. - The chemical 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) found in the Shaman Botanicals tablets is a potent, opioid-like compound derived from the kratom plant. While it exists in trace amounts in natural kratom leaf, it can be concentrated or synthetically produced. - The recalled Shaman Botanicals tablets were found to contain more than the 7.5 milligrams of 7-OH stated on the label, increasing the risk of adverse effects. The specific lot number being recalled is B# AAW.501.3. - The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned consumers to avoid all products containing 7-OH, stating it is not a lawful dietary supplement and has not been proven safe for any use. The agency has reported harmful effects including seizures, addiction, and withdrawal symptoms. - In July 2025, the FDA recommended that 7-OH be classified as a Schedule I controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse and its ability to bind to opioid receptors. The agency has been targeting products, often sold in vape shops and online, that are marketed in youth-appealing forms like gummies and drink mixes. - Some studies indicate that 7-OH can be significantly more potent than morphine. Health officials are concerned because consumers may be unaware they are taking a substance that functions like an opioid, leading to potential dependence and withdrawal.
