Apricot Power refuses to recall toxic apricot seeds

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers about Apricot Power seeds, though the company refuses a recall - Photo FDA

The seeds contain high levels of a toxin that can cause cyanide poisoning

Apricot Power is refusing to recall apricot seeds after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration found they were toxic.

Analysis of three samples showed seeds contained high levels of the toxic compound amygdalin, which can lead to fatal cyanide poisoning when eaten, the FDA said Friday.

The products in question are Apricot Power's packets of California Select, Organic Turkish Select and South African Select. They are available for purchase on Apricot Power's website and other online retailers.

After receiving a complaint and samples from the Texas Department of State Health Services, the FDA said it launched an investigation into the seeds and notified the company about the results and concerns. Apricot Power then declined to recall the products earlier this month and still hasn't issued a recall after the FDA followed up.

Apricot Power didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.

The FDA said people should dispose of the products and contact their health provider immediately if they have eaten them. 

Mild-to-moderate symptoms from cyanide poisoning include difficulty breathing, bluish skin discoloration, weakness and lightheadness. Severe symptoms include coma, seizures, stupor and cardiovascular collapse.

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