ChiTree Recalls Apricot Kernels Due to Poisoning Risk

ChiTree Apricot Seeds is recalling its products as excessive eating of raw apricot kernels may cause poisoning from its naturally occurring hydrocyanic acid.

ChiTree also stopped selling apricot kernels, warned consumers not to eat it and urged the return of purchased products for a refund.

The recall followed an instruction from the Australian Health Department on Friday to stop sale of the seeds as these contain a substance called amygdalin, which in turn contains hydrocyanic acid, which is dangerous when consumed in excess.

In its website posting, ChiTree said apricot kernels are safe when used in cooking as food seasoning, for pressing oil or cosmetics.

But it said, "The risk exists, when consumed in excess, that a person will experience adverse reactions, such as dizziness, nausea or headache. In cases where large quantities are consumed at once, more serious reactions would be likely. The body has the ability to process small quantities of hydrocyanic acid safely and without adverse reaction."

ChiTree said consumers may return purchased products to P.O. Box 1022, Castlemaine, Victoria 3450. The name and email address used to make the purchase online should be indicated.