Fruits are a healthy snack that provides essential vitamins and minerals. However, not all fruits are safe. Some fruits can be deadly if consumed in large quantities or if eaten in a certain way, particularly in unripe or toxic form.

It is essential to know which fruits to avoid to prevent any harm to your health. Here are ten deadly fruits to avoid:.

1. Ackee

Ackee is a tropical fruit that is native to West Africa and Jamaica. It is the national fruit of Jamaica and is incorporated into many popular Jamaican dishes.

However, the fruit contains a potent toxin called hypoglycin A, which can cause vomiting, seizures, and even death if consumed when unripe or improperly cooked. The flesh of the fruit must be ripe and opened naturally. It should never be forced open, and the red skin and black seeds should be discarded before eating.

2. Cherry Pits

Cherries are a delicious summer fruit, but the pits inside the fruit can be extremely dangerous to humans and pets. Cherry pits contain a poisonous substance called hydrogen cyanide, which can be fatal in large doses.

The pits should always be removed before consuming the cherries, especially for children and pets.

3. Elderberries

Elderberries are a commonly used fruit in jams and pies. The fruit is also used as a natural remedy for cold and flu symptoms.

However, the stems, leaves, and unripe berries contain a toxic substance called cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in humans. The fruit should always be cooked before consumption to remove any toxins.

4. Manchineel Fruit

The manchineel fruit is one of the deadliest fruits in the world. The fruit is native to the Caribbean and Central America and resembles a small green apple.

It contains a potent toxin called phorbol, which can cause severe burns, swelling, and even death if consumed. The fruit should be avoided at all costs, and any contact with the tree or fruit should be avoided as well.

5. Apple Seeds

While apples are considered to be a healthy fruit, their seeds contain cyanide, which is lethal in large quantities. The seeds should be removed before consuming the fruit, especially for children.

Apple seeds also contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when ingested, causing vomiting, dizziness, and difficulty breathing.

6. Cassava

Cassava is a starchy tuber that is commonly used in African and South American cuisine. The root contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause cyanide poisoning if consumed in large quantities or if not cooked or processed correctly.

The root must be peeled, washed, and boiled to remove any toxins before consumption.

7. Rhubarb Leaves

Rhubarb is a tart and tangy fruit that is a popular ingredient in pies and pastries. However, the leaves of the rhubarb plant contain oxalic acid, which can be poisonous in large quantities.

Symptoms of oxalic acid poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea and in severe cases, convulsions, and coma. The leaves should be removed before using the fruit.

8. Bitter Almonds

Bitter almonds are a type of almond that contain amygdalin, a compound that breaks down into cyanide when ingested. The almonds are not typically sold in stores as they are toxic and can be lethal if consumed in large quantities.

The sweet almonds that are commonly sold and eaten do not contain amygdalin and are safe for consumption.

9. Starfruit

Starfruit is a tropical fruit that is commonly eaten in Asian countries. The fruit contains a neurotoxin called caramboxin, which can cause vomiting, confusion, seizures, and even death in individuals with kidney disease.

Starfruit should be avoided by individuals with kidney disease.

10. Tomatoes (in large quantity)

Tomatoes are a healthy fruit that is rich in antioxidants and vitamins. However, eating too many tomatoes can lead to a condition called hyperkalemia, which is characterized by high levels of potassium in the blood.

Symptoms of hyperkalemia include muscle weakness, fatigue, and irregular heartbeat. To avoid hyperkalemia, it is recommended to limit tomato consumption to a reasonable amount.