What are the side effects of phytohaemagglutinin?
                                
                                
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                                    6 min read                                
                            
                                As few as four to five raw kidney beans can trigger symptoms of phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) poisoning. This naturally occurring lectin, most concentrated in kidney beans, can cause a rapid and severe gastrointestinal illness if not properly deactivated through cooking. The toxin can interfere with cellular metabolism and is heat-sensitive, making proper preparation crucial for safety.