Is eating raw eggplant bad for you? Unpacking the risks and facts
                                
                                
                                •
                                
                                
                        
                                    
                                    4 min read                                
                            
                                For most individuals, it is safe to eat raw eggplant in moderation, although it belongs to the nightshade family and contains a compound called solanine. This natural plant toxin is present in such low concentrations that a person would need to consume an incredibly large amount of raw eggplant to approach toxic levels. Still, most people choose to cook eggplant due to taste, texture, and digestibility concerns.