Why eating apple seeds isn't always harmless: four potential risks

Apple seeds often end up in the mouth along with the fruit's flesh, but this isn't always cause for concern. Experts explain that the hard outer shell of a whole seed protects its contents from breaking down in the digestive tract, so a few accidentally swallowed seeds typically just pass through the body without effect.

When the risk increases

The situation changes when seeds are chewed, crushed, or eaten in larger quantities. In such cases, substances can be released from inside the seeds that may convert into a toxic compound within the body. This means an occasional swallowed seed is not a reason for concern, but deliberately or regularly crushing and consuming seeds in bulk could carry more risk.

Choking hazard

One of the risks mentioned when eating an apple with its seeds is simply the possibility of choking, particularly if the fruit is eaten hurriedly or carelessly without being cut into smaller pieces.

The article emphasizes that in an everyday situation, where an apple is eaten along with a few accidentally bitten seeds, this generally does not pose a serious health threat. Caution is advised, however, in cases where seeds are deliberately crushed, such as when preparing juices or smoothies in large quantities, since this could result in a higher concentration of the substances mentioned entering the body.