Tag: Cherry seeds

Native to the Americas, the Barbados cherry, or acerola, is renowned for having up to 65 times more vitamin C than an orange. This fact makes it a nutrient powerhouse, but many people question the safety of consuming this tropical fruit, especially its seeds.

While the African cherry, known locally as agbalumo or udara, is a popular fruit praised for its nutritional benefits, including high vitamin C content, its seeds contain a naturally occurring substance that can be harmful. Swallowing African cherry seeds is not recommended, especially if they are crushed, as they can release a toxic compound.

According to the National Institute of Health, swallowing a single whole cherry pit is unlikely to cause any harm, but the pits do contain a compound called amygdalin that can convert into cyanide. So, can swallowing a cherry seed harm you, and what's the real risk?