The previous news item briefly touched on apricot kernels. Rumours circulate that they help prevent cancer.
Apricot kernels contain amygdalin, also known as laetrile. Cancer cells are said to die after ingestion, while healthy cells are said to remain unharmed. In the 1970s, supplements containing amygdalin were available as a cancer treatment. This has since been clearly demonstrated to be untrue. On the contrary, amygdalin is dangerous. It is converted in the body into highly toxic cyanide.
Eating even two or three apricot kernels can have serious consequences. Even one kernel is poisonous for young children. Simply swallowing a kernel isn’t a problem, but chewing or crushing the kernels is.
The Belgian Ministry of Public Health has been warning about the high toxic content of apricot kernels since 2016. Since then, most packaging has been removed from health food stores and supermarkets. However, you can still buy the kernels online.
Apricot kernel powder is still used in confectionery, such as imitation marzipan, but it is first heated to high temperatures, which eliminates the toxic effect.