Kernels and seeds: sweets to handle with care
Cherry pits and apple pits are not as harmless as they seem. Chewing or crushing them releases amygdalin, a substance that can be converted to cyanide in the body. It is therefore better to throw them away than to eat them.
Green potatoes: watch out for solanine
It is often overlooked, but a potato that turns green in the light can produce solanine, a potentially toxic substance. The side effects can be serious, from nausea to coma. The solution? Peel them carefully, and avoid those with a greenish tinge.
Raw cashews: false friends
Cashew nuts sold in stores are always heat-treated. In their raw state, they contain urushiol, a highly irritating substance that is also found in poison ivy. Do you eat them raw? Do you risk redness, itching ... or worse.
Nutmeg: spice or hallucinogen?
Nutmeg adds flavor to our gratins and desserts. But in high doses (about two teaspoons), it becomes a mild substance ... with formidable effects: hallucinations, nausea and neurological disorders that can last for several days. Use with caution!
Wild mushrooms: don't play amateur mycologist
Every autumn in France, mushroom hunters end up in the emergency room after confusing an edible mushroom with a poisonous one. The infamous "death mushroom", responsible for the death of Pope Clement VII, is visually deceptive. If you are not an expert, it is best to stick to those from the supermarket.
Rhubarb: green light for stems, red light for leaves
Although the stems are perfect for jam, rhubarb leaves contain oxalic acid, a toxin that can cause serious kidney problems. Never boil them; they should go straight into the compost.
Red kidney beans: Cook thoroughly to avoid the worst
A handful of raw or undercooked kidney beans can be enough to cause severe vomiting. The culprit: phytohemagglutinin. To avoid this, it is important to cook them thoroughly for at least 10 minutes.
Conclusion: Be aware of what you eat.
Our daily diet can hold many surprises. Although some foods are dangerous, they are still safe to eat as long as certain rules are followed. So before you venture into the culinary world, it is best to do your research.
Have you ever tried one of these risky dishes? Share your experiences!
