Apricot Kernels
The apricot kernel is located inside the stone of the fruit. After the stones were extracted from the harvested and dried apricot fruits, the shells of apricot stones are cracked by machine, so that the kernels can be removed. The kernels are removed of shell fragments and dust mechanically before being packaged for delivery.
Apricot kernels are differentiated in sweet and bitter kernels. As with sweet almonds, the amygdalin content in relation to the bitter sorts is small ( hydrogen cyanide levels <70 mg /kg ), and the consumption is regarded harmless.
Apricot kernels are used in the confectionery industry, mainly as raw material for the production of persipan.
Apricot kernels have a high health-promoting effect. The contained amygdalin is said to be tumor cell exterminating.