The Regional Authority for Economic Activities (ARAE) has been informed that tropane alkaloids—specifically atropine and scopolamine—have been detected at levels exceeding legal limits in certain batches of the product “BROT – MIX DUNKEL,” a gluten-free bread flour mix from the Dr. Schär brand, originally produced in Italy.
This issue was identified through the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) under notification no. 765727, reference 2025.3911.
In the Autonomous Region of Madeira, the product withdrawal applies exclusively to the following batches, sold in 1 kg packages with the EAN: 8008698008997.
“The presence of these alkaloids — toxic compounds at certain concentrations — constitutes a violation of Regulation (EU) 2023/915, which sets the maximum permissible levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs,” ARAE stated in an official release.
Consumers who use this brand are advised to check the batch and serial numbers.
If you are in possession of an affected product, do not consume it. Please return it to the place of purchase for a refund or safe disposal.
Atropine and Scopolamine are found in some nightshade varieties such as deadly nightshade, jimsonweed (Datura), Henbane, and thorn apple. It acts as an anticholinergic agent, which blocks the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the nervous system. However, scopolamine is more potent and affects both the central and peripheral nervous systems.
They are not found naturally in flour but could contaminate gluten-free flour if it is accidentally harvested alongside millet, buckwheat, sorghum, or corn.
It is rare, but there is documented evidence within the EU of food product recalls regarding high levels of Atropine and Scopolamine in food products.
Both Atropine and Scopolamine poisoning can cause:
Dry mouth
Blurred vision
Dilated pupils
Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
Confusion, agitation, or hallucinations
Flushed skin
Urinary retention
Fever
In severe cases: seizures, respiratory failure, or even coma
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
