While we may be put off by the idea of eating worms, dogs, or guinea pigs, we often overlook the potential dangers lurking in mushrooms, fish, vegetables, berries, and fruits. What should we know about foods that seem appetizing?
Potatoes
This common vegetable hasn’t always been considered a food source. Initially, people grew potatoes as ornamental plants, later sampling the leaves and shoots, which contain solanine. This toxin can cause nausea, diarrhea, disorientation, and even loss of consciousness.
Tomatoes
The tomato berry itself is not harmful, but the green parts of the plant are rich in glycoalkaloids. These toxins can trigger migraines and gastrointestinal issues.
Elderberries
This wild berry is used in both medicine and cooking. Elderberries are delicious in baked goods, jellies, and syrups. However, only ripe berries are safe to eat: unripe fruits, flowers, leaves, stems, and roots contain sambunigrin. This toxic glycoside can cause severe stomach and esophageal distress.
Pufferfish
This deadly fish is a true test of a chef’s skill. If not prepared correctly, a meal can send an adventurous eater to the great beyond. The culinary art lies in the careful cleaning of the fish and the meticulous removal of toxins.
Rhubarb
Cooking with rhubarb also requires a professional approach. In this garden plant, only the stalks are edible, while the leaves, which contain oxalic acid, can be toxic.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is well-known as a laxative. It is also used as a food ingredient. However, the raw seeds should never be consumed. Ricin, a potent protein toxin, is found in the seeds. Fortunately, during the production of castor oil, the toxin is neutralized.
Almonds
With their unique flavor and aroma, almonds are prized in various cuisines around the world. However, this does not apply to raw seeds: the glycoside amygdalin found in them releases cyanide salts, which can be toxic in large amounts.
Cherries
The pits of cherries harbor the same danger as those of apricots. If you want to avoid cyanide poisoning, steer clear of the seeds. It’s best to enjoy the delicious and nutritious flesh of the cherry instead.
Apples
This source of iron and vitamin C also has its own “spoonful of tar in the honey pot.” Apple seeds are not safe to eat due to their cyanide content, which gives them a bitter taste. However, the concentration of cyanide in the small seeds of apples is 1.5 times lower than in cherry pits, so accidentally swallowing a few seeds is unlikely to harm your health.
Mushrooms
Even completely edible mushrooms can accumulate toxins from their environment. Additionally, conditionally edible species require prior cooking to neutralize toxins. Recent studies have found harmful components in certain mushrooms that were previously considered safe. Not every body has the enzymes needed to digest mushrooms. This heavy food is not recommended for children, the sick, or the elderly.
So, stay vigilant and take care of your health!