Durham: Beware Potential Apricot Seed Toxins

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning to consumers about the potential dangers of consuming apricot seeds after high levels of the toxic compound amygdalin were found in certain products.

Analytical packets reviewed by the Commonwealth of Virginia Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (DCLS) from samples collected by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) revealed the presence of amygdalin in Apricot Power products.

The affected products include Bitter Apricot Seeds with lot numbers:

• NGR FY24-015 (California Select).
• NGR FY24-016 (Organic Turkish Select).
• NGR FY24-017 (South African Select).

Amygdalin, when ingested, can lead to cyanide toxicity, with symptoms ranging from difficulty breathing and cyanosis to severe cases of coma and seizures. Chronic consumption may result in neuropathy, impaired eyesight, deafness, and motor dysfunction.

Consumers are advised to stop using and dispose of these products immediately. If ingested, they should contact their healthcare provider and seek emergency medical help if severe symptoms occur. Despite the FDA’s notification, Apricot Power (as of May 24) has declined to recall the products. The FDA continues its investigation and urges healthcare professionals, patients, and consumers to report adverse events to the FDA’s MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.

For more details, visit the FDA website here.

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