Apricot Kernel Brand Recalled Over ‘Acute’ Cyanide Poisoning Risk

Sareks’ Bitter Apricot Kernels are being recalled due to “excessive” amounts of amygdalin. CFIA

An apricot kernel product sold online is being recalled due to “excessive” amounts of a compound that may cause acute cyanide poisoning.

Sareks’ Bitter Apricot Kernels are being recalled for exceeding the maximum established levels of amygdalin, a naturally occurring compound that can release cyanide after being eaten, said the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) in a Dec. 11 advisory. So far, one person has been reported ill from consuming the product.

The “class one” recall means there is a high risk that consumption could lead to serious health problems or death. The best-before date of the one-pound product is Oct. 12, 2025, and its universal product code is X002FRXB9J.

“The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is conducting a food safety investigation, which may lead to the recall of other products,” the agency said.

The body can naturally detoxify small amounts of cyanide, but exposure to larger levels over a short period of time can result in poisoning. Symptoms include weakness, confusion, restlessness, nausea, difficulty breathing, headache, loss of consciousness, seizures, and cardiac arrest, according to the agency.

People experiencing symptoms should contact their health-care provider. Those who purchased the product are advised to dispose of it or return it, the agency said.

To ensure that apricot kernels on the market are safe for consumption, Health Canada established product standards in January 2020, requiring total extractable cyanide levels in kernels not to exceed 20 parts per million (ppm). This applies to both bitter and sweet apricot kernels.

Kernels that exceed the guideline are not allowed to be sold in Canada.

Canada has recorded two confirmed cases of acute cyanide poisoning from consumption of apricot kernels, one in 2005 and another in 2009. However, there are no safety concerns associated with eating apricot fruit, according to Health Canada.