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The Curious Bag
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<h4 class="dechead">On One Hand: International Reputation
The sweet apricot kernel, nicknamed the poor man's almond because it imparts an almond flavor to foods but costs far less than almonds, is a key ingredient in a number of cultural recipes. The Chinese have used apricot kernels as medication to treat respiratory illness; nowadays, they add these kernels to vegetable dishes and grind them for use in desserts. Europeans use apricot kernels to flavor jellies and jams but discard them before consumption.
On the Other: Concerns About Toxins
Based on data for the New Zealand Food Safety Authority, consuming more than one or two apricot kernels daily, especially in raw form, can result in poisoning. Although these kernels are sold as health food, they naturally contain the poison cyanide. When eaten in large doses, they can cause such minor symptoms as headaches and dizziness, in extreme cases leading to coma and death.
Bottom Line
In small amounts, you can safely eat apricot kernels. Before consuming them, you can lower the toxin level of apricot kernels by boiling and then completely drying or roasting them.
Source:
Oregon State University: Apricot Kernel
New Zealand Food Safety Authority: NZFSA Concerned About Consumption of Apricot Kernels
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