Trader Joe's ‘Everything But The Bagel’ faces crackdown in South Korean airports
‘Everything But The Bagel’ seasoning from Trader Joe's has been illegal in South Korea for two years, as poppy seeds are designated as a narcotic.
Trader Joe’s signature Everything but the Bagel sesame seasoning blend may be a staple in the pantries of many American households, but travelers looking to share the popular topping with their relatives and friends in South Korea say they’re running into a sprinkling of trouble.
The product has been illegal there for two years, as poppy seeds are designated as a narcotic, according to Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. Koreans on social media have recently been sharing accounts of a stricter approach at the airport.
At Seoul’s Incheon International Airport, one traveler posted a photo of a sign explicitly warning travelers about the Trader Joe’s seasoning. The sign includes a picture of the product, which has become popular worldwide thanks largely to social media.
The airport did not immediately respond to a request for comment. A representative told CNN that the country is cracking down on narcotic-related imports.
“Seed products with narcotic substances have always been banned from being brought into Korea. Recently, the customs offices have been strengthening crackdown on narcotic related items,” an airport representative told CNN.
Rating: 5