Malta’s Thyme Warning: Check Your Packets

Picture this: You’re at Is-Suq Tal-Pietà, Malta’s bustling market, browsing the vibrant stalls. You spot a bundle of fresh thyme, a staple in Maltese cuisine, and pop it into your basket. But hold on, before you get cooking, you might want to read this.

Malta’s health authorities have issued a warning over packets of thyme sold locally. The thyme, sourced from a single supplier, has been found to contain high levels of a pesticide, posing a potential health risk.

According to the Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Directorate, tests on thyme packets revealed excessive amounts of the pesticide thiamethoxam. This chemical, used to control pests, can cause symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and headaches if ingested in large quantities.

Dr. Charmaine Gauci, Superintendent of Public Health, urged the public not to panic but to exercise caution. “We’re not saying everyone should throw out their thyme,” she said, “but if you’ve bought it recently, check the batch number.”

If your thyme packet bears the batch number MTHY1221, it’s best to dispose of it. The affected packets were sold in various outlets island-wide, including supermarkets and greengrocers. The supplier, who has not been named, has recalled the contaminated packets.

This isn’t the first time Malta has grappled with pesticide residue in food. In 2019, high levels of pesticides were found in local honey, sparking outrage among consumers. But this thyme incident is a reminder that our food’s journey from farm to table isn’t always straightforward.

If you’ve consumed the affected thyme and feel unwell, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of pesticide poisoning can take hours or even days to appear.

In the meantime, the health authorities are working with the supplier to ensure no more contaminated packets reach the shelves. They’re also reminding the public to always check batch numbers and follow proper food handling practices.

So, what’s the verdict on thyme? It’s still a staple in Maltese kitchens, but let’s make sure it’s safe before we add it to our timpana or Stuffat tal-Fenek. After all, our health is no small herb.