Why did Cassey Hoff test positive for opiates?

Cassey Hoff tested positive for opiates because she consumed poppy seeds, which can cause false positives on sensitive drug tests due to contamination during harvesting.

Can eating poppy seeds lead to an opiate drug test positive?

Yes, consuming poppy seeds can lead to a positive opiate result on a drug test, even though they do not contain enough opiates to cause intoxication.

What precautions should pregnant women take regarding poppy seeds?

Pregnant women should be cautious and potentially avoid foods containing poppy seeds, such as Everything Bagel Seasoning, to prevent false positive drug test results.

Home / Health / Pregnant Woman's Shock Opiate Test Linked to Poppy Seeds

Pregnant Woman's Shock Opiate Test Linked to Poppy Seeds

24 Jan

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Summary

A pregnant woman tested positive for opiates due to poppy seeds.
Poppy seeds can cause false positives on sensitive drug tests.
The incident highlights potential dietary risks for pregnant women.

Pregnant Woman's Shock Opiate Test Linked to Poppy Seeds

A routine OBGYN appointment for a pregnant woman took a startling turn when her urine test indicated a positive result for opiates. Cassey Hoff, 34, from Westminster, Maryland, was initially shocked and concerned for her baby's wellbeing, as she does not take any opioid medication. Her anxiety grew, fearing potential complications with labor and delivery and even intervention from child protective services.

The unexpected result was traced back to her dietary habits. Hoff's sister suggested the cause might be her frequent consumption of avocado toast with Everything Bagel Seasoning, a common ingredient of which is poppy seeds. While poppy seeds themselves are not opiates, contamination during harvesting can lead to false positives on highly sensitive drug tests.

This phenomenon is significant enough that the U.S. Department of Defense issued a memo in 2023 advising service members to avoid poppy seeds as a precaution. Hoff confirmed with her doctor that the poppy seeds were indeed the cause of her positive test and that no further testing was deemed necessary. She has since removed poppy seed-containing items from her diet and shared her experience on TikTok, where it gained significant traction.