The Hidden Danger of Cassava …World’s De@dliest Food K!lls More Than 200 People a Year But Millions Still Eat It
Every year, over 200 people lose their lives to what has been dubbed the “world’s deadliest food.” Yet, despite its risks, nearly half a billion people continue to consume it regularly. So, what is this potentially lethal food.
The Hidden Danger of Cassava
Cassava, a root vegetable widely consumed across the globe, serves as a key part of the diet for around 500 million people. Native to South America, it is now cultivated and eaten in large quantities in many countries, particularly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Despite its popularity, cassava can be extremely hazardous if not prepared properly. The root, peel, and leaves of the plant contain toxic compounds that, when consumed raw, can produce hydrogen cyanide, a deadly substance.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that cassava poisoning is responsible for approximately 200 deaths annually, earning it the title of the “world’s deadliest food.”
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