More than 200 people who ate spinach experienced hallucinations, blurred vision and other health problems. A subsequent investigation found the cause to be strange. In Australia, hundreds of people have experienced physical discomfort after eating spinach. At first it was thought that it could be the toxicity of the spinach. Later, after the investigation, the real villain was identified.
After the incident became big news in Australia, the Department of Health conducted an investigation. It turned out that the problems were caused by mixing a type of cannabis plant with spinach. Alongside the spinach, a plant known as the throne apple was grown. The scientific name of this plant known as stramonium is Datura stramonium.
Patients have reported symptoms such as hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, red eyes, blurred vision, fever, slurred speech, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth and dry skin. Symptoms started after eating spinach. In South Wales alone, around 88 people experienced the same symptoms and of these, 33 consulted doctors.
It is not yet known how the cannabis plant grew together with the lettuce. Officials have advised that these matters are being investigated. The concern was caused by lettuce from the Riviera Farm in Australia. Agricultural authorities intervened as soon as it was reported that those buying spinach from here were feeling uncomfortable. The lettuce is grown on a farm in Victoria. From here it is usually shipped to other parts.
Similar cases have been reported from South Wales, Victoria and Queens Island. Many people have also been hospitalised. Health experts said no one’s condition is serious.
