🌍 Over 200 People Die Each Year from the “World’s Deadliest Food” — Yet Nearly 500 Million Still Eat It



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The food often referred to by that dramatic headline is Cassava (also called manioc or yuca — not to be confused with yucca).
🥔 Why Cassava Can Be Dangerous
Cassava naturally contains cyanogenic glycosides, compounds that can release cyanide when the plant is damaged or improperly prepared.
If eaten raw or not processed correctly, it can cause:
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Cyanide poisoning
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Vomiting and dizziness
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Paralysis
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In severe cases, death
The World Health Organization estimates that around 200+ deaths per year are linked to improper cassava preparation, mostly in regions where it is a dietary staple and food shortages limit proper processing.