Why is there cyanide in apples?

Chef's answer
You're highly unlikely to manage to eat enough apple seeds to poison yourself, so you can rest easy if you occasionally swallow one. Apples contain a compound called amygdalin in their seeds, which is a cyanide-and-sugar based molecule. ... The remainder can then decompose to produce the poisonous gas hydrogen cyanide.
Frequently asked Questions 🎓
You're highly unlikely to manage to eat enough apple seeds to poison yourself, so you can rest easy if you occasionally swallow one. Apples contain a compound called amygdalin in their seeds, which is a cyanide-and-sugar based molecule. ... The remainder can then decompose to produce the poisonous gas hydrogen cyanide.
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