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 experienced physical discomfort after eating spinach. At first it was thought that it might 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 was discovered that the problems were caused by mixing a type of cannabis plant with the spinach. A plant known as the throne apple was grown alongside the spinach. The scientific name of this plant known as jimsonweed is Datura stramonium.
Patients reported symptoms such as hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, red eyes, blurred vision, fever, slurred speech, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth and skin. Symptoms started after eating spinach. In South Wales alone, around 88 people showed the same symptoms and of these, 33 consulted doctors.
How the cannabis plant grew alongside lettuce is still unknown. Officials informed that these matters are being investigated. The concern was caused by lettuce from Riviera Farm in Australia. The farm authorities took action as soon as it was reported that those who bought spinach from here were feeling discomfort. Lettuce is grown on a farm in Victoria. From here it is usually shipped to other parts.
Similar cases were reported from South Wales, Victoria and Queens Island. Many people were also admitted to the hospital. Health experts said that the condition of no one is serious.