Tag: Zucchini toxicity

According to reports, rare cases of "toxic squash syndrome"—caused by high levels of compounds called cucurbitacins—have led to severe illness, including one case of death. But does this mean all cucurbits are dangerous, and can you eat cucurbitacins in smaller, non-toxic amounts?

According to reports, a 2024 study highlighted a case of severe cucurbitacin poisoning from unexpectedly toxic zucchini, confirming that yes, there are poisonous gourds, even among common vegetables. Understanding the signs of toxic squash syndrome is critical for home gardeners and consumers alike.

In 2015, a 79-year-old German man tragically died from what is known as 'toxic squash syndrome' after eating a severely bitter zucchini from his own garden. This case highlights a rare but serious danger related to naturally occurring toxins and begs the question: does zucchini contain cucurbitacin, and if so, when is it a risk?