Impact of particle size on HCN detoxification in wild apricot kernels
Department of Food Science and Technology, Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Pincode: 263145. Corresponding e-mail: rawatneha1225@gmail.com
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2025.v27i02.35
Full text PDF Wild apricot kernels are rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, but also high in amygdalin, which hydrolyzes to form hydrogen cyanide (HCN), a deadly compound. The purpose of this study was to lower HCN levels in wild apricot kernels by soaking them at various kernel diameters (0.34 mm to 11.66 mm) and periods (0.34 h to 11.66 h) under controlled circumstances. The soaking process was done at 30 ± 2°C, with water replaced every hour and a water-to-kernel ratio of 10:1. These conditions were optimized using Design Expert software and results indicate significantly reduced hydrogen cyanide (HCN) levels while maximizing nutritious content can be obtained. Breaking the kernels into smaller sizes (7.88 mm) and soaking for 10 hours lowered HCN levels to 36.13 mg/100 g while maintaining excellent nutritional content (21.16% protein, 47.75% fat, and 21.22% carbs) and yield (96.45%). The improved soaking process provides an effective and practical way for detoxifying wild apricot kernels while retaining their nutritional value.
