A pregnant woman from Maryland has issued an important warning after she tested positive for opiates due to her consumption of a popular food item. Cassey Hoff, who is expecting her fifth child, discovered the unexpected result during a routine blood test at her OBGYN appointment on January 25, 2026.
Hoff was taken aback when her test results returned as “abnormal,” revealing traces of opiates in her system. Alarmed by the findings, she sought to understand how this could happen, especially since she had never used opiate drugs. Upon reflection, Hoff identified a potential source: her daily breakfast of avocado toast topped with everything bagel seasoning, which she had been enjoying for the two weeks leading up to the test.
The seasoning contained poppy seeds, which are known to be coated with small amounts of morphine and codeine. According to the Mayo Clinic, these substances can remain in the body after consuming foods containing poppy seeds. Hoff realized that her innocent breakfast choice was the culprit behind her test results.
In a viral TikTok video, Hoff recounted her experience, drawing attention from pregnant women around the world. “I tested positive for opiates at my OBGYN blood draw this past week and I’m clearly not a drug addict,” she stated in her video, which has garnered over 1.4 million views.
During her appointment, Hoff was shocked to see the abnormal flag on her five-panel drug screen. “I immediately am like, what the f**k? I do not do any sort of opiate… why am I testing positive for opiates in my blood draw?” she explained. Concerned about potential repercussions, she reached out to her sister, who reminded her of her recent avocado toast cravings and the poppy seeds in her breakfast.
Hoff’s anxiety grew as she worried that the doctors might suspect drug use and potentially involve child protective services. After contacting a nurse, she received reassurance that her case was not a cause for concern. “I’m over here freaking the f**k out,” she expressed.
Following her revelation, Hoff shared her cautionary tale, advising others that consuming poppy seeds could lead to positive opiate tests in blood or urine. The feedback from her video included numerous accounts from others who experienced similar situations. One user mentioned that they had tested positive after consuming a package of lemon poppy seed muffins, while another recalled being advised not to eat poppy seeds before a drug test for employment.
This incident highlights a lesser-known issue surrounding poppy seed consumption and its potential effects on drug screenings. While the seeds are often used in culinary dishes, their opiate content can lead to misunderstandings, especially for individuals in sensitive situations like pregnancy.
As Hoff’s story circulates, it serves as a reminder for pregnant women and the general public to be mindful of their dietary choices, particularly those that include poppy seeds. The potential legal and health implications of such food items can have significant consequences, particularly for expectant mothers navigating medical evaluations.
