Most of us never think about the possibility that the food we eat can be deadly. Some foods that we consume in our daily routine could cause serious damage to our bodies and lead to our death.

Being aware of these foods is essential to avoid any life-threatening situations. Here is a list of the deadly foods that you need to know about:.

1. Fugu Fish

Fugu fish, also known as pufferfish, is a delicacy in Japan. However, it is also one of the most poisonous fishes in the world. The fish contains tetrodotoxin, a toxin that is lethal to humans.

Even a small amount of tetrodotoxin can cause paralysis, respiratory arrest, and death. As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been many cases of death due to the consumption of fugu fish. Only highly trained and licensed chefs are allowed to prepare this dish.

2. Ackee Fruit

Ackee fruit is native to Jamaica and is the national fruit of the country. The fruit is delicious and is used in many Jamaican dishes. However, eating it raw or consuming the unripe fruit could be fatal.

The ackee fruit contains hypoglycin, which could lead to a drop in blood sugar levels, vomiting, seizures, and even death. The Jamaican government has strict regulations on the export of ackee fruit to prevent any mishaps.

3. Cassava

Cassava is a plant that is widely used in Africa and South America. The plant contains a compound called linamarin which breaks down into hydrogen cyanide, a deadly poison.

Eating cassava roots that are not properly processed or cooked could lead to cyanide poisoning, which could cause paralysis, respiratory failure, and death.

4. Rhubarb

Rhubarb is a popular plant used to make pies, jams, and sauces. However, its leaves could be fatal if eaten in large quantities. The leaves contain oxalic acid, which could lead to kidney damage, breathing difficulty, seizures, and even death.

It is safe to use the stalks of the plant for consumption, but the leaves should be avoided at all costs.

5. Mushrooms

Mushrooms can be delicious, but not all mushrooms are safe to eat. Some mushrooms, such as the Death Cap and Destroying Angel, contain amatoxins, which could cause liver and kidney damage. Eating these mushrooms could also lead to death.

It is essential to know the difference between edible and poisonous mushrooms.

6. Nutmeg

Nutmeg is a spice used for flavoring in many dishes and desserts. However, consuming nutmeg in large quantities could cause hallucinations, nausea, seizures, and even death. The spice contains myristicin, which could be toxic in large amounts.

It is recommended to use nutmeg in moderation.

7. Elderberries

Elderberries are known for their medicinal properties and are used in many supplements and remedies. However, the unripe fruit and leaves of the elderberry plant contain cyanogenic glycosides which could lead to cyanide poisoning.

Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include shortness of breath, headache, and convulsions. It is essential to consume only the ripe berries of the plant.

8. Cherry Pits

Cherries are a popular fruit used in many recipes. However, the pits of the cherry contain a toxic substance called cyanide. Eating too many pits could lead to cyanide poisoning, which could be fatal.

Always ensure that you remove the pits before consuming cherries.

9. Raw Milk

Raw milk is milk that has not been pasteurized or homogenized. While some people prefer raw milk due to the health benefits, it could also be dangerous.

Raw milk could contain harmful bacteria such as E.coli, Salmonella, and Listeria, which could lead to serious illnesses. It is recommended to consume only pasteurized milk to avoid any risks.

10. Apple Seeds

Apples are a popular fruit used in many recipes and consumed as a snack. However, apple seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides which could lead to cyanide poisoning.

While you would need to eat a large amount of apple seeds to get sick, it is always best to remove the seeds before consuming the fruit.

Conclusion

While these deadly foods may seem harmless, they could cause serious damage to our bodies and even lead to our death. It is essential to be aware of these foods and avoid them to prevent any mishaps.

Always ensure that you follow the safety guidelines while preparing and consuming your food.