Gina Heslop
Cassava is a widely consumed root crop that provides food for millions of people in Africa, Asia, and South America.
It is a staple food in many countries because it is affordable, high in calories, and grows well in poor soil conditions. However, despite its benefits, cassava carries a hidden danger.
If it is not prepared properly, it can release cyanide, a toxic substance that can cause serious poisoning or even death.
The Hidden Danger of Cassava
Reports estimate that more than 200 people die every year from cyanide poisoning caused by cassava. This makes it one of the most dangerous foods in the world.
The risk comes from two main types of cassava: sweet cassava and bitter cassava. The sweet variety has lower levels of cyanide, while the bitter variety contains much higher concentrations of toxic compounds.
People eat cassava in different forms, such as cassava flour, boiled root, or tapioca. However, if the cassava is not properly soaked, fermented, or cooked, harmful cyanide levels can remain.
Even small amounts of cyanide consumed over time can lead to a serious condition called Konzo. This is a neurological disorder that causes paralysis, making it difficult for people to walk or move properly.
In some cases, acute poisoning can be fatal, especially for children and malnourished individuals.
Why People Still Eat Cassava
Despite these dangers, cassava remains an important food source for millions of people. In many regions, other crops do not grow well, so cassava is one of the few options available. Many people depend on it for their daily meals.
The good news is that the risk can be greatly reduced if cassava is prepared correctly. Traditional processing methods, such as peeling, soaking, fermenting, and thorough cooking, help remove most of the cyanide and make cassava safe to eat.
Spreading Awareness to Prevent Poisoning
To protect people from poisoning, many governments and organizations have launched educational campaigns.
These programs teach communities how to safely prepare cassava, so they can continue to benefit from this important crop without putting their health at risk.
By following proper preparation methods, people can avoid cyanide poisoning and continue to rely on cassava as a valuable food source.
