apricot kernels bitter

Typical of many seeds and nuts, bitter apricot kernels are rich in protein, fat and fibre. The fat is predominantly mono-unsaturated, thought to offer health benefits (including lowering of cholesterol) when substituted in the diet for saturated fatsBitter apricot kernels contain amygdalin, also known as laetrile or Vitamin B17 (although it is not a recognized vitamin).

When eaten, the amygdalin in the bitter apricot kernel can produce cyanide. This is not unique to apricots the seeds and stones of other fruits such as cherries, plums, peaches and apples also have this property. The Food Standards Agency has recommended a safe intake level of one to two bitter apricot kernels a day.