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The seeds in some Chinese herbal teas could be fatal.
They come from the plant Abrus Cantoniensis, are water soluble and can cause severe stomach cramps and even death. The seeds are found in tea in retail packs under various brand names such as 'Heng Ming' and are sold through Asian supermarkets and by Eastern medicine outlets.
Food Safety Authority spokesman Geoff Allen says the product is also known as 'Canton Love Pea' and eating the seeds could cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhoea, and possibly death.
The importer is recalling and withdrawing the product.
- NEWSTALK ZB
