Health for humans, animals & plants

Guidance on reducing contamination of agricultural crops with seeds and tropane alkaloids from the datura plant

| 1 min read
Wissen Aktuell Agriculture

This guide provides an overview of the datura plant and suitable methods for controlling it.

Jimson weed (Datura stramonium) is an agricultural weed and contains toxic tropane alkaloids. If ingested, these can cause symptoms of poisoning in humans and animals. The plant has spread widely in agricultural areas in recent years. This also increases the risk of crop contamination in production areas. Crops such as soya beans, millet and maize are particularly affected by thorn apple, as are other combine-harvested crops. 

This guide brings together key information on datura, as well as measures to reduce undesirable levels of seeds and tropane alkaloids in agricultural crops. It is based on the findings of the StopDatura project, which have been combined and analysed alongside insights from the specialist literature, as well as the experience and assessments of experts.

The guide is aimed at agricultural businesses, traders and warehouses, food and feed producers, as well as the interested (specialist) public.

| 1 min read
Wissen Aktuell Agriculture

Last updated: 30.04.2026

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