The Amygdalin-Cyanide Connection: What Makes Apricot Seeds Toxic?
Apricot kernels, located inside the hard pits of apricots, contain a compound called amygdalin, a cyanogenic glycoside. When these kernels are chewed or digested, enzymes break down amygdalin, releasing toxic hydrogen cyanide. This is a natural defense for the apricot plant but is harmful to humans and animals.
Both 'sweet' and 'bitter' apricot kernels contain amygdalin, though bitter kernels have much higher levels. The amount of amygdalin can vary by apricot variety and growing conditions, making it difficult to determine the exact cyanide dose one might ingest.
The Myth of "Vitamin B17" and Cancer Treatment
A chemical derivative of amygdalin, laetrile, has been falsely promoted as an alternative cancer treatment under the name "Vitamin B17". Proponents claim cancer is a vitamin deficiency, but this lacks scientific evidence.
Why the Claims are False
- Not a Vitamin: "Vitamin B17" is not recognized as a vitamin and is not essential for health. The name was created for marketing purposes.
- Ineffective Treatment: Clinical trials have found no evidence that laetrile or amygdalin effectively treats cancer. Studies showed tumors continued to grow in patients treated with amygdalin.
- Medical Quackery: Promoting laetrile is considered medical quackery. Using unproven treatments can cause patients to delay or reject effective therapies.
The Immediate Dangers of Cyanide Poisoning
Ingesting even a small number of raw apricot kernels can cause cyanide poisoning, which can be fatal. Cyanide is particularly harmful to the heart and brain due to oxygen deprivation.
Symptoms of Acute Cyanide Poisoning
Symptoms can appear quickly and include:
- Weakness, confusion, and anxiety
- Headache, nausea, and vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
- Loss of consciousness, seizures, and cardiac arrest
Children are especially vulnerable, with severe illness and fatalities reported from consuming as little as half a kernel.
A Look at Official Health Warnings
Health agencies globally warn against consuming raw apricot kernels. The FDA has alerted the public about toxic amygdalin in apricot seed products. The EFSA has noted that consumption can exceed toxic thresholds. Countries like Australia and New Zealand have banned the retail sale of raw kernels.
| Aspect | Raw Apricot Kernels | Safe Apricot Fruit (Flesh Only) |
|---|---|---|
| Key Compound | Amygdalin (Cyanide Precursor) | Vitamins (A, C, E), dietary fiber, potassium |
| Safety Risk | High, potentially fatal cyanide poisoning | Very low, perfectly safe for consumption |
| Health Claims | Unproven cancer cure (often called "Vitamin B17") | Supports digestive health, vision, and skin health |
| Official Status | Restricted or banned in many regions | Widely recognized as a nutritious fruit |
Can Processing Make Them Safe?
Some traditional uses involve processing apricot kernels, like boiling. This can reduce amygdalin, but it's not a guaranteed safe method for home use. Roasting may not eliminate toxins sufficiently. Relying on unverified preparation methods for a toxic substance is risky.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Chewing Apricot Seeds
Health experts, toxicologists, and food safety authorities agree: do not chew raw apricot seeds. The risk of life-threatening cyanide poisoning outweighs any unproven health claims. The potential for harm, especially to children, is significant. Enjoy the apricot fruit, but discard the kernel responsibly. If considering apricot kernels for a medical condition, consult a healthcare professional. For more information, visit the FDA's website.
Should You Chew Apricot Seeds?
This article highlights the dangers of consuming raw apricot kernels due to their amygdalin content, which releases cyanide. It addresses the false claims about "Vitamin B17" and provides information on health warnings and poisoning symptoms.
What are apricot kernels?
Apricot kernels are the seeds inside the hard pit of an apricot. They look like small almonds and exist in sweet and bitter varieties.
Are all apricot kernels toxic?
All raw apricot kernels contain amygdalin. Bitter kernels have higher levels, but all are potentially toxic raw and should be avoided.
What is the amygdalin-cyanide conversion process?
Chewing or digesting raw kernels allows enzymes to react with amygdalin, releasing poisonous hydrogen cyanide in the stomach.
Are there safe ways to consume apricot kernels?
Apricot kernels in commercially processed goods like biscuits are safe because cooking reduces toxin levels. However, consuming them raw at home is dangerous.
How many apricot seeds can kill you?
There is no safe amount of raw apricot kernels, and even a few can cause serious harm. Children are especially vulnerable, with poisoning from as little as half a small kernel.
Can I eat processed apricot kernels or products containing them?
In processed foods, cooking significantly reduces or eliminates amygdalin, making them safe. Only raw, unprocessed kernels are banned for retail sale in some areas.
