The Forbidden Seasoning: Everything but The Bagel Mix

In many countries, the versatile Everything but The Bagel seasoning mix is a popular choice to enhance the flavors of various dishes. However, in South Korea, this seasoning mix has found itself on the list of unexpected contraband items that travelers are prohibited from bringing into the country.

Trader Joe’s savory blend of garlic, onion, and poppy seeds, known as “Everything but The Bagel” seasoning, has gained a devoted following in the United States. Despite its popularity, many individuals attempting to transport this seasoning to South Korea have had their prized jars confiscated by authorities. According to local reports, food products containing poppy seeds, including the beloved bagel seasoning blends, are considered illegal in South Korea, as confirmed by the U.S. Embassy.

Although the ban on Trader Joe’s seasoning mix in South Korea was implemented in 2022, its allure in the region has surged, with influencers in Japan even using Trader Joe’s branded tote bags as a fashion statement. As more travelers have attempted to bring this sought-after seasoning mix into South Korea, there has been a notable increase in confiscations at airports, as reported by local news outlets and social media platforms.

Poppy seeds themselves are not opiates; however, they can potentially be tainted by the plant’s opiate-containing fluid during harvesting. The level of contamination can vary, making it challenging to determine the exact amount of opiates present in poppy seeds used in bagels, cakes, or seasonings.

In South Korea, the ban on poppy seeds stems from their classification as a narcotic substance. Consuming poppy seed products can lead to a failed drug test, as highlighted by Michelle Carlin, an assistant professor specializing in toxicology and forensic chemistry at Rutgers University.

While the likelihood of a seasoning mix containing enough opiates to trigger a positive drug test is relatively low, the regulations in South Korea remain stringent due to the potential risks associated with opiate contamination in poppy seeds.

South Korea is among the select few countries with specific laws governing the use of poppy seeds. The United Arab Emirates also prohibits the import of poppy seeds, while Singapore mandates opiate testing for any poppy seed imports.

Interestingly, in the United States, there have been conflicting messages regarding poppy seeds. In a notable incident in 2023, the Department of Defense cautioned military personnel about the risks of consuming poppy seeds leading to positive drug tests, despite the military previously including poppy seed bread in ready-to-eat meals provided to service members.