Czechia among leading consumers and producers of poppies
Czechia is one of the world's biggest producers, exporters, and consumers of poppies. Poppy seeds are known for their positive health benefits, distinct nutty flavor and in Czechia they are among the most basic and popular ingredients for traditional Czech pastries.
Many people, when you mention poppy seeds, will immediately think of drugs. But not so in Czechia, where poppy seeds are an indelible part of the national cuisine. Traditionally, poppies are dominant in Slavic cuisines, with some exceptions, as Jiří Vaněk from the agricultural company Úněšovský Statek told Czech Radio.
"Poppy is a traditional product in Slavic countries, in countries where German is spoken, and then in Jewish culture. For us, the poppy straw is not important, it is a waste. But for other growers in Europe, it's the basic product they grow it for."
Most of the Czech poppy production is exported to Russia, Poland, Slovakia, Ukraine, Austria, Germany, Hungary, and the Netherlands. Some Czech poppies also go to the USA, where communities with European Slavic roots are the most frequent customers.
Around 50 varieties of poppy are registered in Europe. In Czechia, the most widespread varieties are Major, Maraton, and Bergam, which come from breeding stations based in Slovakia. They are characterized by their white or light pinkish-white flowers.
Baking technologist Aneta Frydrychová says that these white poppies have healthy properties that consumers don't come across that often.
"White poppies are not generally used in the baking industry. Firstly, because it is an expensive ingredient. Secondly, some people may not like the strong nutty aroma. But it is richer in oil and protein and is very beneficial from a nutritional point of view."
In central Europe, consumers most often use the blue-seed poppy, which has a high oil content. It is also pressed to produce poppy milk. In savory bakeries, it is poured onto buns and is a very popular filling for buns and various types of cakes.
Marie Hebíková, who also works at Úněšovský Statek, described how the traditional filling for Czech pastries is made:
"The poppy seeds are ground, you have to pour boiled milk into them. Usually cinnamon, gingerbread, and, of course, sugar are added. You have to make the dough dense enough so that the poppies stick well to the buns and don't spill out."
Poppies have health-promoting properties: they help against insomnia, eczema, and prevent strokes, for example. They have also been shown to have positive effects for the bones, joints, teeth, hair, and even eyesight.
However, growing poppies is not the easiest task, due to particular requirements for soil, temperature, light, and moisture. In addition, there are certain legal obligations that must be followed to prevent the possible misuse of poppies for drug consumption.
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