Cyanide Toxicity of Freshly Prepared Smoothies and Juices Frequently Consumed | Chapter 02 | Current Trends in Food Science Vol. 1
Introduction: Humans are exposed to low levels of CN- on a daily basis due to vehicle exhaust, water sources, foods, and even cigarettes smoke. Many of these raw and natural foods such as seeds and nuts have become a large part of human nutrition with the “eat raw and natural” push over the past decade with a reported 40% of adults consuming raw seeds and nuts daily. Most forms of CN- in health foods originate from amygdalin contained in apple seeds and almonds or, linamarin contained in flax seeds. Many of these items are used in the health food industry (e.g., fresh smoothies and juices) as a selling point for improving one’s fitness, vigor, and strength as they are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, and fiber. Aims: This study evaluated popular fruit and vegetable smoothies and juices marketed as raw and natural. Data showed that some items contained the presence of cyanide at various levels. Study Design: There were eleven (11) popular varieties of dri...