Apple Seeds Contain Cyanide—But How Much Is Actually Dangerous?

Apple seeds contain a small amount of a poisonous compound called amygdalin, which can release cyanide. While eating a few seeds is generally considered safe, health experts warn against consuming them in large quantities. The real danger lies in crushing or chewing the seeds, which increases the risk of cyanide exposure.

An adult would need to eat around 200 whole apple seeds in a short period to reach toxic levels of cyanide. This estimate is based on each seed containing about 0.4–0.6 mg of cyanide, with a lethal dose for a 70 kg person ranging from 70–140 mg. For comparison, an average apple contains 6–9 seeds, meaning someone would have to eat roughly 50 whole apples—seeds and all—in less than a day to face serious harm.

Consuming crushed seeds, however, can cause symptoms much sooner. These may include abdominal pain, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and headaches. In extreme cases, very high doses of cyanide could lead to seizures or loss of consciousness.

For vulnerable groups, such as infants, children, and pregnant women, the risk is higher. Regularly drinking pressed juice or smoothies made from whole apples could expose them to unsafe levels over time. Additionally, apple seeds pose a choking hazard for young children, making them more dangerous than their toxicity alone.

Anyone concerned about accidental ingestion should contact Poison Control at 800-222-1222 or seek immediate medical help if symptoms of cyanide poisoning appear.

While the chance of cyanide poisoning from apple seeds is low under normal circumstances, caution is still advised. Avoid chewing or crushing the seeds, and keep whole apples away from small children to prevent choking. Those at higher risk should also limit exposure to unfiltered apple juices or smoothies containing seeds.