Tag: Cucumber poisoning

The bitterness in cucumbers is caused by natural compounds called cucurbitacins. While most commercially grown cucumbers have been bred to remove this trait, stressful growing conditions can increase cucurbitacin levels, making a normally mild cucumber taste intensely bitter.

Cucumbers are 96% water, but their bitter taste comes from a natural defense compound. This article explains what is the toxin in cucumbers, the conditions that cause its production, and how to avoid an unpleasant surprise in your salad.