A survey has revealed a gap in the knowledge of consumers in Germany when it comes to natural plant toxins. A poll by the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) found just under half of the respondents (47 percent) were aware of plant toxic substances. The BfR Consumer Monitor special edition on naturally occurring plant toxins also revealed that this risk worries 27 percent of people.
The survey was conducted in August 2023 with 1,012 people and the report was recently released. Many foods contain toxins of natural origin. These are often chemical compounds used by plants to ward off predators such as insects or microorganisms.
These substances are found in products such as beans and potatoes, and can pose health risks. Natural toxins and mold One example is solanine in potatoes, green or sprouting parts contain increased concentrations of this toxin. Certain types of beans contain lectins, which, when inadequately prepared, can cause illness.
In many cases, heating the food is enough to make the natural toxins harmless. “The survey results make it clear that risks of natural origin tend to be underestimated, while risks of synthetic origin tend to be overestimated,” said Professor Andreas Hensel, BfR president. Residues in food (from plant protection products) and contaminants, such as substances not intentionally added to food, like heavy metals, cause concern for 63 and 62 percent of people respectively.
When asked about foods with naturally occurring plan.
