How Much Is Too Much?
Here’s where the science gets interesting. Studies estimate that:
A single apple seed contains about 1–4 mg of amygdalin.
When metabolized, this can release a small amount of cyanide.
The lethal dose of cyanide for humans is estimated at around 1–2 mg per kilogram of body weight.
That means an adult weighing 70 kg (154 lbs) would need to consume roughly 150–200 crushed seeds at once to reach a potentially fatal dose. That’s equivalent to eating the seeds of about 18–20 whole apples in one sitting.
Clearly, that’s not something the average person would do. Most of us eat one apple at a time, occasionally swallowing a stray seed or two. In such small amounts, the body can detoxify and eliminate cyanide without noticeable harm.
So, Should You Panic About Apple Seeds?
Not at all. If you’ve accidentally swallowed a few seeds, there’s no need to worry. The seeds are actually coated with a hard shell that protects the amygdalin from being released unless the seed is chewed or crushed. Swallowed whole, most seeds simply pass through the digestive tract without causing any harm.
The real danger only comes from:
Chewing and eating large quantities of seeds.
Grinding them into powder and consuming them directly.
Using them in homemade remedies without knowledge of proper dosage.
So, the occasional seed is harmless — but deliberately eating them in large amounts can be risky.
