Tag: Candlenut toxicity

According to ancient Hawaiian traditions, kukui nuts were used as candles due to their high oil content, and they also played a vital role in cuisine, but with a critical safety caveat. So, can you eat kukui nuts safely? The answer depends entirely on preparation, as raw kukui nuts are toxic and must be properly roasted before consumption.

According to medical reports, consuming raw candlenut, also known as kukui nut, can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting and diarrhea, due to the presence of toxic compounds. While a staple in many cooked Southeast Asian dishes, the raw form of this nut is extremely poisonous and can cause dangerous side effects if not prepared correctly.