Certain apricot kernel products - recalled as they may cause cyanide poisoning

Canada

The CFIA announced the recall of certain apricot kernel products by the industry due to the presence of an excessive amount of the natural toxin amygdalin, which may cause acute cyanide poisoning. There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of these products.

CFIA advises consumers not to eat the recalled products and return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Check to see if you have the recalled product in your home.

- Apricot Power. Bitter Raw Apricot Seeds. (226.8 g). UPC: 7 528303 370840. Codes: EXP0121. Additional Information: National.
- Chen-Chen. Dried Apricot North Almond Seeds. (170 g). UPC: 0 20616 99366 4. Codes: Best Before: 10.NOV.2021. | 12.MAY.2022. Additional Information: British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan.
- Double Happiness. Dried Apricot Seed Mix. (200 g). UPC: 6 26430 00016 0. Codes: Best before 30/12/2020. Additional Information: British Columbia, Alberta.
- Earth Notions. Raw Bitter Apricot Kernels. (454 g). UPC: 6 89076 42028 0. Codes: Best before: April 2020| Lot #: AK1803 Best before: April 2021| Lot #: AK1904. Additional Information: Ontario and nationally through Internet sales.
- Natural Herbs Trading Co., Ltd. Bitter Apricot Kernels. (100 g). UPC: None. Codes: 3106030. Additional Information: British Columbia.
- Organic Traditions. Dried Bitter Apricot Kernels. (227 g). UPC: 6 27733 00900 3. Codes: All lot codes. Additional Information: National.
- Surrey Natural Foods. Organic Bitter Apricot Kernels. (Variable). UPC: Starting with 0 201614. Codes: All Packed on dates up to and including 21-MR-12. Additional Information: British Columbia.

Apricot kernels naturally contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide after being eaten. The human body can eliminate small amounts of cyanide, but larger amounts can result in cyanide poisoning, which could lead to death.

Check the full recall details on the CFIA website inspection.canada.ca/food-recall-warnings-and-allergy-alerts/2021-03-12/eng/1615607619889/1615607625484