Cherry pits are known to contain amygdalin, a compound that can be converted into cyanide in the body if the pit is either crushed or chewed. While ingesting a small number of cherry pits is generally considered safe, consuming them in large quantities may pose risks such as choking hazards or even potential blockages in the colon. Cherries, a delightful fruit enjoyed during the summer months, belong to the Prunus genus, categorizing them as drupes or stone fruits. These fruits are characterized by having their seeds encased in a hard, stony endocarp or pit. Although the pits are typically meant to be discarded when savoring cherries, it’s not uncommon for individuals to accidentally swallow a few. Given the potential toxicity associated with cherry pits, there are valid concerns regarding their safety. This article aims to clarify whether cherry pits truly pose a danger should you unknowingly consume a few.

What is the Toxic Compound Found in Cherry Pits?

Cherries, beloved for their sweet and juicy flavor, harbor a small, hardened pit that encases their seed, often referred to as a kernel. Within these cherry pits, as well as other types of stone fruits, resides a compound known as amygdalin. Amygdalin is classified as a cyanogenic glycoside, a chemical that undergoes conversion in the body to produce the highly toxic substance hydrogen cyanide. This potent compound disrupts the transport of oxygen in the bloodstream, posing a serious threat to vital organs such as the brain, heart, and lungs. Consequently, this is why consuming cherry pits can be perilous. It is important to understand that while cherry pits contain amygdalin, which your body transforms into hydrogen cyanide, the level of danger associated with consuming them is contingent on the quantity of cyanide to which one is exposed.

What is the cyanide content in cherry pits?

When cherry pits are chewed or damaged, the enzymes present in the fruit interact with amygdalin, a compound within the pit, resulting in the production of hydrogen cyanide. This chemical reaction is significant, as cyanide can pose serious health risks. The potential for cyanide toxicity in humans can arise from an intake of 0.2–1.6 mg per pound (0.5–3.5 mg per kg) of body weight. For instance, a person weighing approximately 150 pounds (68 kg) could face cyanide exposure ranging from 30–240 mg.

In terms of amygdalin concentration, a red cherry pit contains about 3.9 mg of this compound per gram of fruit, while black cherries hold a slightly reduced amount of 2.7 mg per gram. However, the Morello cherry pit is particularly noteworthy, boasting an impressive 65 mg of amygdalin per gram.

The amount of cyanide that can be generated in the body from these stone fruits varies significantly, ranging from 0.01 to 1.1 mg depending on the quantity consumed. For example, consuming just 3–4 pits of the Morello cherry or 7–9 pits from either red or black cherries could potentially lead to cyanide toxicity. When cherry pits are chewed, they release amygdalin, which is then converted into cyanide by the body. The concentration of amygdalin in cherries can vary, with levels between 3.9 to 65 mg found per gram of fruit depending on the cherry type.

What Should You Do If You Swallow Cherry Pits?

If you or your child happen to swallow one or two cherry pits, there is generally no reason to panic. While the act of swallowing whole cherry pits is typically non-toxic, it can present a choking hazard, particularly for young children, and could potentially lead to colon obstruction. However, it is important to note that chewing and consuming multiple pits can be dangerous, especially for younger individuals. Reports have indicated cases of intoxication or poisoning resulting from the ingestion of pits from cherries, apricots, and peaches, particularly in children. Symptoms of acute toxicity may include headaches, nausea, seizures, convulsions, and breathing difficulties.

Should you suspect that your child has chewed and swallowed several pits, it is crucial to monitor them closely for any adverse reactions. If symptoms manifest, do not hesitate to reach out for emergency assistance by dialing 911 or contacting poison control at 1-800-222-1222. It is advisable to educate children about the importance of spitting out the pits to mitigate any associated risks.

While ingesting whole cherry pits is unlikely to be toxic, chewing them can lead to the production of hydrogen cyanide. Therefore, accidentally chewing and swallowing several pits may result in uncomfortable symptoms such as headaches, seizures, and challenges in breathing.

What Are the Benefits?

Research has successfully identified and extracted compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties from the kernels of cherry pits. However, studies concerning their safety and effectiveness are still ongoing. Antioxidants are crucial substances that can help shield your body from diseases by preventing cellular damage. The fruit of the cherry (???????) and its extracts have demonstrated the ability to lower uric acid levels, making them a potential natural remedy for gout; although, it's still uncertain how much the cherry pits contribute to this effect.

Moreover, cherry pits boast multiple culinary applications. For example, we can extract flavorful compounds from the kernels to create delightful liqueurs. It’s important to note that traditional recipes typically do not utilize the pits themselves but rather leverage the flavors from the succulent fruit that clings to them. If you're looking for unique culinary experiences, consider trying recipes for cherry pit syrup and cherry pit whipped cream to spark your creativity in the kitchen. Even though cherry pits are technically inedible, there are undoubtedly safe and innovative ways to incorporate them into your cooking endeavors.

The Bottom Line

Cherry pits possess different concentrations of amygdalin, a compound that your body can transform into cyanide. This conversion occurs primarily when the cherry pit is either bruised or chewed. While it is generally safe to swallow a small quantity of whole cherry pits, caution is advised as they can present a choking hazard and may lead to potential blockages in the colon if consumed in larger quantities. To ensure safety, it is recommended to always remove the pits while enjoying cherries. Additionally, it is important to educate children on the necessity of spitting out the pits to prevent any health risks.