CDC warns of 'hidden poison' in apples if you eat the seeds

An apple a day keeps the doctor away, or does it? According to YouGov, apples are extremely popular in the UK. In fact, they are ninth on the list of the most popular fruits in the country. These fruits may seem harmless, but their seeds seem to contain a toxic substance for humans. Here is all you need to know.

CDC warns apples seeds contain 'hidden poison'

Apples are overall great for your health, but the Center for Disease Control and Prevention warns you should never eat their seeds. Indeed, apple seeds contain a toxin known as amygdalin and when they are eaten in large quantities, they can come in contact with your stomach's digestive enzymes, which releases cyanide. You should not be at risk if you swallow them whole, as their protective layer is strong and allows them to be digested safely.

It would take a large amount of seeds to poison you

However, if you chew apple seeds, the protective layer disintegrates, releasing said toxin.

Cyanide stops your body from actively processing oxygen, which is essential to keep you alive. According to the CDC, it can have a 'bitter almond' taste, but it is generally tasteless and odorless. Symptoms of cyanide exposure usually include chest pain, confusion, dizziness, difficulty breathing and headaches. It can also cause nausea, a disrupted heart rate and breathing rhythm, fatigue and vomiting.

Cyanide is a deadly poison, usually associated with chemical warfare. According to the CDC, the lethal dose of cyanide is quite high, at around 154lbs, which amounts to about 70kg. Therefore, it is safe to swallow one or two by accident. It is estimated that you can be at risk if you swallow 200 seeds, which equals to about 40 apple cores.

The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry has issued a warning, explaining that being exposed to even small quantities of cyanide can cause harm to your heart and brain. In worst cases, it can even lead to falling into a coma, or even death. To be safe, experts recommend you should spit out apple seeds if they find their way into your mouth. The Agency also advises that you should not eat seeds from other fruits either, such as peaches, apricots and cherries.

If you think you might have been contaminated by cyanide, you should immediately go to the A&E. You can also call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

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Sources used:

YouGov: The Most Popular Fruits (Q2 2024)

Bristol Live: People warned of 'hidden poison' lurking inside common UK fruit

Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry: TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE FOR CYANIDE

Center for Disease Control and Prevention: Cyanide: Exposure, Decontamination, Treatment