Understanding the Risk: Amygdalin and Cyanide
Raw apricot kernels contain a naturally occurring compound called amygdalin, also known as 'vitamin B17' by some unproven sources. When ingested, amygdalin is broken down by the body's enzymes to release hydrogen cyanide, a highly poisonous substance. While the body can metabolize small amounts of cyanide, high exposure over a short period can lead to acute cyanide poisoning.
Health authorities worldwide have issued warnings about the dangers of eating raw apricot kernels. The amount of amygdalin varies between sweet and bitter kernels, with the latter containing significantly higher levels, making them more dangerous. Misleading claims suggesting that these kernels are a cancer treatment are not supported by scientific evidence and have been linked to serious adverse effects.
Recommended Safe Limits
Official health and food safety agencies have provided specific, low-level consumption recommendations for raw apricot kernels. These are based on the acute reference dose (ARfD) for cyanide, which is the maximum amount that can be ingested at once without adverse effects.
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): The EFSA recommends that adults limit their intake to no more than one to three small kernels per day. Consuming less than half of a large kernel could already exceed the safe dose.
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR): The BfR advises adults to eat no more than two bitter apricot kernels per day and recommends that children avoid them completely.
- Singapore Food Agency (SFA): The SFA warns against eating raw apricot kernels entirely and states that for adults, consuming just three small kernels can lead to cyanide poisoning symptoms.
- Health Canada: A maximum level of 20 parts per million (ppm) of total extractable cyanide has been established for apricot kernels sold as food, with kernels exceeding this not being permitted for sale.
Signs and Symptoms of Cyanide Poisoning
Recognizing the signs of cyanide poisoning is crucial for immediate medical intervention. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the dosage and individual sensitivity.
- Low to Moderate Exposure: Symptoms may include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fever, insomnia, lethargy, muscle and joint pain, and low blood pressure.
- High Exposure (Acute Toxicity): Severe symptoms can manifest rapidly and include confusion, difficulty breathing, seizures, convulsions, loss of consciousness, coma, and even death.
Anyone experiencing these symptoms after consuming apricot kernels should seek emergency medical help immediately.
Comparison of Raw vs. Processed Apricot Kernels
| Feature | Raw Apricot Kernels | Processed Apricot Kernels |
|---|---|---|
| Amygdalin Content | High | Significantly reduced (over 90% reduction from boiling) |
| Cyanide Risk | High, can be fatal | Low, generally considered safe |
| Recommended Intake | 1-3 small kernels per day for adults (maximum) | Safe for consumption when prepared correctly |
| Regulatory Status | Sale often prohibited or regulated in many countries | Generally permitted for sale in processed foods |
| Processing Method | None | Boiling, soaking, deskinning, or baking |
The Misconception of 'Vitamin B17' and Cancer Treatment
The marketing of amygdalin as 'vitamin B17' and a natural cancer treatment is a dangerous fallacy. Scientific reviews, including one published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, have found no reliable evidence to support these claims. In fact, the review concluded that the risk of serious adverse effects from cyanide poisoning significantly outweighs any alleged benefits, and the risk-benefit balance is unequivocally negative. Regulatory bodies like the FDA, Health Canada, and others have specifically warned against these unproven treatments.
For more detailed information on laetrile and amygdalin and their use as an unproven cancer treatment, consult the National Cancer Institute's guide on Laetrile/Amygdalin.
Conclusion
When considering how many apricot kernels can you eat safely, the simple answer is: very few, if any at all. Due to the significant risk of cyanide poisoning from amygdalin, health authorities strictly limit or warn against the consumption of raw kernels. For adults, the maximum safe dosage is typically cited as one to three small kernels per day, with any larger amount posing a substantial danger. Children and pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should avoid them completely. When consuming apricot kernels, opting for properly processed varieties, such as those used in traditional Chinese soups or baked goods, is the only safe method, as processing drastically reduces the toxic amygdalin content. The unfounded claims surrounding apricot kernels as a cancer cure should be disregarded, as they are not backed by science and carry a serious risk of harm.
For your safety, remember:
- Do not consume raw apricot kernels. Processing is required to reduce cyanide content.
- Never give apricot kernels to children. Even a half kernel can be dangerous for young children.
- Reject unproven health claims. Claims about cancer treatment lack scientific backing and are dangerous.
- Be aware of poisoning symptoms. Seek emergency help immediately if you experience any signs of cyanide poisoning.
- Choose processed products wisely. Ensure apricot kernel products are properly cooked to minimize risk.
Key Safety Reminders
- Limited Adult Intake: For adults, the safe daily limit for raw apricot kernels is one to three small kernels at most, though some authorities recommend avoiding them entirely due to risk.
- Children Should Not Consume: Children are at a much higher risk of cyanide poisoning, and all official advice recommends they avoid apricot kernels completely.
- Amygdalin Converts to Cyanide: Apricot kernels contain amygdalin, a substance that releases toxic cyanide when digested.
- Processing Reduces Risk: Cooking, boiling, or soaking kernels can significantly reduce their cyanide-releasing potential, making them safer for use in some food preparations.
- Beware of False Health Claims: The supposed benefits of amygdalin (marketed as 'Vitamin B17') for cancer are not supported by scientific evidence and are considered dangerous.
- Symptoms Demand Immediate Attention: Symptoms of cyanide poisoning, such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, and breathing difficulties, require urgent medical care.
- Regulatory Warnings Exist: Numerous food safety agencies and health bodies have issued strong warnings and regulated the sale of apricot kernels to protect public health.
