Ask A Scientist© Biology Archive

Question:  Is it true apple seeds contain small traces of poison?
Richardo Cossyleon

Answer 1:  I've not studied this in depth but understand that apple seeds do 
contain a certain amount of toxic compounds.  I've heard, but cannot confirm, 
that while small numbers of seeds are dangerous, eating a larger number will
induce vomiting before the poison is absorbed.  The whole business seems a bit 
unlikely to me, I confess, since apples are so widely eaten and we never hear 
directly  of apple-related fatalities.
Ethan Allen

Answer 2:  Apple seeds contain "prunasin" which is a cyanogenic glycoside - a 
chemical that can become a poison when it is digested - it releases cyanide.  
Apples are in the genus Prunus and members of Prunus make these types of poisons.
Susan P McCormick