Apple cores contain hydrocyanic acid
No matter where you go, apples are definitely a popular fruit. Like cherries and almonds, apple seeds also contain cyanide, but not in high amounts. Apple seeds can be accidentally eaten, but you would have to eat a lot to feel unwell.
The flesh does not contain any toxic chemicals, but you will find cyanide in the apple core. Eating a whole apple core will not be fatal, but it is definitely not good for your body. Of course, if you eat too many apple cores (provided you chew and swallow them), there could be complications.
When eating apples, remember these three taboos
1. Apples should not be eaten with seafood
Apples contain tannic acid. Eating them with seafood not only reduces the nutritional value of the seafood's protein but can also easily lead to stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. Similarly, other fruits high in tannic acid, such as strawberries, bayberries, persimmons, pomegranates, lemons, grapes, and sour grapefruits, should not be eaten with seafood.
Apples are very nutritious. When you eat an apple, chew it slowly. This not only aids digestion but can also help prevent diseases and cancer.
2. Don't gnaw on the apple core
The apple core contains a small amount of harmful substance—hydrocyanic acid. A large accumulation of hydrocyanic acid in the body can lead to symptoms like dizziness, headaches, and an increased breathing rate. In severe cases, coma may occur.
But there's no need to worry too much. The hydrocyanic acid in apples is mainly in the core, not in the flesh. It should be noted that while the habit of gnawing the apple core won't cause immediate poisoning, eating this way long-term is indeed detrimental to your health.
3. Be wary of waxed apples
Many apples are grown with excessive use of growth hormones, ripening agents, and expanding agents, or excessive preservatives are used during storage. Even colorants, waxing, and bleaching are used for sale to cater to consumers' tendency to judge fruit by its appearance. These toxic fruits have become a serious public hazard that poses a significant threat to people's health.