The apricot seed, also called "armellina", is found inside the fruit stone. It contains a compound called "amygdalin", which releases cyanide upon consumption. If you plan to ingest apricot kernels make sure you don't exceed the recommended daily allowances to prevent possible cyanide poisoning.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Consume Apricot Seeds Safely
Step 1. Avoid eating more than 3 small apricot kernels per day if you are an adult
According to the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) adults who eat more than 3 small apricot seeds per day risk cyanide poisoning. Those who intend to consume them must therefore carefully count the seeds to be ingested, so as not to accidentally eat more than 3.
Step 2. Children should not ingest more than half an apricot seed per day
Preventing children from eating apricot seeds is actually the absolute safest way to prevent possible cyanide poisoning. If you decide to do the opposite, make sure that consumption is limited to half a seed per day.
Step 3. See a doctor if you feel sick after eating apricot seeds
Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include nausea, headache, insomnia, thirst, nervousness, generalized pain, fever, and low blood pressure. Stop consuming the seeds and see a doctor if you notice these symptoms.
Method 2 of 2: Remove the Seeds from an Apricot
Step 1. Cut the apricot in half along the groove using a sharp knife
Don't cut the whole fruit. Stop cutting once you have reached the pit in the center of the apricot with the knife.
Step 2. Open the apricot with the help of your hands
You have to use your hands to split the apricot in half, as it is not possible to cut the pit with the knife.
Step 3. Remove the pit from the central part of the apricot
The pit is the hard, brown part found in the center of the fruit. The seed is located inside it.
Once the pit is removed, cut the rest of the apricot for a snack. The pulp does not contain amygdalin and does not cause cyanide poisoning when consumed
Step 4. Break the pit with a nutcracker
Place the apricot pit in the nutcracker socket and squeeze the rods to break it apart. Once opened, discard the fragments and remove the apricot seed. Inside the pit you should find only one seed.
Step 5. Limit yourself to 3 small apricot seeds if you are an adult
Are you going to give it to a child? Cut the seed in half with a knife and do not exceed this daily dose. Exceeding the recommended doses can cause cyanide poisoning.
