Apricot Kernels
Natural & Organic
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| Styles: | Sweet, Bitter, Debitterized |
| Packaging: | Bulk - net weight 2lb |
| Origin: | Turkey, China |
| Product Detail: | Apricot kernels are the seeds found inside the stones or pits of fresh apricots. These kernels, which belong to a class of oil-bearing seeds/fruits are light brown in color, and resemble small almonds. They have a very high fat content which ranges between 50 – 60%. The kernels are used in the production of liqueurs, persipan (a marzipan substitute) and persic oil. When pressed, they yield an essential oil utilized by the confectionery industry, as a culinary flavoring, as well as a substitute for more expensive almond oil in soap and cosmetics. Raw apricot kernels contain Vitamin B17 (laetrile), in the form of cyanogenic glycosides also referred to as dietary cyanide. In the 1970s, laetrile was touted as a potential cancer treatment by alternative health practitioners. Although the kernels continue to be marketed in health food outlets or in capsule form, medical authorities generally regard the direct ingestion of unprocessed, raw apricot kernels as unsafe, with the potential for cyanide poisoning if eaten in sufficient quantities. |
