Tag: Cassava health risks

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an outbreak of cyanide poisoning from improperly processed cassava flour in Uganda involved nearly 100 cases, highlighting the dangers of eating too much cassava without proper preparation. This root vegetable contains naturally occurring toxic compounds that can be lethal if not handled correctly.

Cassava contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can release hydrogen cyanide, a toxic substance, if not processed correctly. Understanding what happens when you eat a lot of cassava is critical for preventing poisoning and serious long-term health consequences.

Cassava is a staple food for over 800 million people globally, providing an affordable source of energy. However, consuming too much cassava, especially if it is not prepared correctly, can lead to severe health issues, including potentially fatal cyanide poisoning.

While a staple for over 800 million people globally, cassava contains cyanogenic glycosides that can release toxic hydrogen cyanide if improperly prepared. This raises serious safety concerns, highlighting the most significant downsides of cassava alongside its well-known benefits as a resilient carbohydrate source.