As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can provide you with detailed information about eating Barbados cherry pits. Barbados cherries, also known as Acerola cherries, are small fruits that are packed with nutrients and have a tart flavor. While the flesh of the cherry is commonly consumed, the pits or seeds are often discarded. However, if you are curious about eating the pits, here’s what you need to know.
Unlike most cherries, Barbados cherry pits are not hard and can be easily chewed or spat out. They are not the typical hard pits that you would find in cherries like Bing or Rainier. Instead, Barbados cherry pits are relatively soft and can be consumed without causing any harm. They are similar to the texture of the flesh, making them easy to bite into.
It is important to note that only some cherries contain amygdalin and prussic acid, which can be harmful if consumed in large quantities. Amygdalin is a compound that can break down into cyanide when ingested. However, Barbados cherries are not known to contain significant amounts of amygdalin, and therefore the pits are not considered highly toxic.
While swallowing a few whole cherry pits is generally not harmful, it is possible for them to cause a blockage in the colon. This is more of a concern if you were to consume a large quantity of pits. To avoid any potential issues, it is recommended to either chew the pits thoroughly or spit them out if you prefer not to consume them.
In terms of taste, the pits of Barbados cherries do have a slightly bitter flavor. Some people may find this taste unpleasant, while others may not mind it. It ultimately comes down to personal preference whether you choose to eat the pits or not.
In my personal experience, I have tried eating the pits of Barbados cherries and found them to be quite palatable. The soft texture and mild bitterness were not overpowering, and I did not experience any adverse effects. However, I would still advise caution and moderation when consuming the pits, as individual reactions and tolerances may vary.
To summarize, Barbados cherry pits are not hard like most cherry pits and can be easily chewed or spat out. While they do not contain significant amounts of amygdalin or prussic acid, it is still recommended to exercise caution and avoid consuming large quantities of pits to prevent any potential blockages. Ultimately, the choice to eat the pits or not is a personal preference.
