Cook

Ingredients

Why Fresh Elderberries Are Actually Toxic By Iva Sorsa-Sunic Aug. 8, 2025 10:20 am EST

Elderberries are known for their delicious syrups, jams, and baked goods — and they've earned a reputation for being packed with antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients. But when was the last time you found fresh elderberries at a grocery store ? Chances are, never, and that's because you should never eat this fruit raw . Consuming uncooked elderberries can cause unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms.

Elderberries contain cyanogenic glycosides, which are substances that can release cyanide when ingested – this is the same poison found in bitter almonds . While the amount of cyanide in elderberries is relatively low (eating a few berries likely won't be fatal), inge

See Full Page