🇹🇳TunisiaNorth Africa
Meknassy food poisoning deaths linked to toxic Nicotiana glauca plant
via Business News3 min read
Following a food poisoning incident in Meknassy, Sidi Bouzid governorate, ten days ago, two people died and several others required medical attention. The National Food Safety Agency INSSPA announced on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, that laboratory analyses revealed the presence of anabasine, a toxic substance, in a sample of "osbane" consumed by the victims. Traces were also found in the sauce and couscous, suggesting contamination during preparation. Experts believe the anabasine originated from the accidental inclusion of leaves from the wild plant Nicotiana glauca, also known as "tree tobacco." This plant, common in Mediterranean regions including North Africa, contains toxic alkaloids like anabasine, which can cause severe poisoning, affecting the nervous system, and leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, muscle weakness, neurological disorders, respiratory difficulties, and heart rhythm disturbances. In severe cases, it can be fatal. A key danger is that Nicotiana glauca leaves can be mistaken for edible leafy greens like chard or spinach, especially when gathered from the wild or informal sources. The plant is an shrub, 2 to 6 meters tall, with thick, bluish-green, waxy leaves and bright yellow tubular flowers. Originating from South America, it is drought-resistant and grows in abandoned areas and roadsides. All parts of the plant are toxic. Health and botanical experts advise against consuming wild plants unless their identification is formally established
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Business News.
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