Cherry pits contain amygdalin, a compound that can convert into toxic hydrogen cyanide when the pits are crushed or chewed. Swallowing whole cherry pits without chewing is generally not toxic because the hard pit prevents the release of cyanide and the pit usually passes through the digestive system intact
. The toxicity risk arises if multiple pits are chewed or crushed, releasing cyanide. The amount of cyanide produced varies by cherry type, with Morello cherries having the highest amygdalin content. Eating about 3–4 crushed Morello cherry pits or 7–9 crushed red or black cherry pits may cause cyanide poisoning symptoms
. For a typical adult, cyanide toxicity can occur at doses of about 30–240 mg cyanide, which corresponds roughly to chewing 20–30 cherry pits, depending on the cherry variety and body weight
. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include headache, nausea, seizures, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, coma or death
. Children are more susceptible to poisoning and choking hazards from cherry pits
. Summary:
- Swallowing a few whole cherry pits is usually safe and not toxic.
- Chewing and swallowing several cherry pits (around 7–30 depending on type) can release enough cyanide to be toxic.
- Toxicity symptoms can be serious and require medical attention.
- Children are at higher risk and should avoid swallowing pits.
If you suspect someone has chewed and swallowed multiple cherry pits and shows symptoms, seek emergency medical help immediately
. In essence, toxicity depends on the number of pits chewed and ingested, with a rough toxic threshold starting at around 7–9 crushed pits for some cherry types and up to 20–30 pits for others
