Apricot kernel product recalled due to risk of ‘acute’ cyanide poisoning; 1 person sickened

Sareks Bitter Apricot Kernels is being recalled over risk of cyanide poisoning. (CFIA)

One person has become sick after eating a brand of apricot kernels, which is now being recalled as it may cause cyanide poisoning.

In a recall advisory on Wednesday, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) says Sareks Bitter Appricot Kernels with a universal product code (UPC), X002FRXB9J, and a best before date of 12-10-2025, contains excessive amygdalin, a toxin that can cause acute cyanide poisoning.

The agency noted the recall was triggered following test results.

“Apricot kernels naturally contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide after being eaten. The human body can eliminate small amounts of cyanide, but larger amounts can result in cyanide poisoning, which could lead to death,” the agency warns.

In 2020, Health Canada put in place a maximum level of 20 ppm total extractable cyanide in apricot kernels sold as food.

Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include weakness and confusion, anxiety, restlessness, headache, nausea, difficulty breathing and shortness of breath, loss of consciousness, seizures and cardiac arrest.

According to Health Canada, there’ve only been two cases of acute cyanide poisoning in the country, one in 2005 and the other in 2009, as a result of eating apricot kernels. The federal agency notes there are no other safety concerns associated with eating apricots.

Anyone who has the recalled products in their home to throw them out or return them.