Short Answer: If you accidentally eat bad cashews, you may experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, as they contain rancid fats that can harm your health. You can prevent this by storing them properly and checking their quality before eating them.
Cashews are (kidney-shaped seeds that grow on the cashew tree, a tropical plant native to South America and some Caribbean islands).
They are rich in nutrients, such as protein, fiber, healthy fats, copper, magnesium, and manganese.
They are commonly eaten as snacks or used in recipes, but they need to be roasted or processed before consumption, as they contain a toxic substance called urushiol in their shells.
If you accidentally eat bad cashews, you may experience some unpleasant symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
This is because they contain unsaturated fats that can go rancid over time, breaking down into potentially harmful compounds that cause inflammation and may increase the risk of cancer.
Rancid fats can also affect the taste and smell of cashews, making them bitter and unpleasant.
It is quite uncommon to eat bad cashews, as they usually have a long shelf life and are stored in airtight containers away from heat, light, and air.
You can prevent or treat mild symptoms of eating bad cashews by drinking plenty of water, eating bland foods, and taking over-the-counter medications, such as antacids or anti-diarrheals.
However, if you have severe symptoms, such as blood in your stool, fever, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the throat, you should seek medical attention immediately, as you may have an allergic reaction to cashews or a foodborne illness.
To avoid eating bad cashews, you should check the expiration date on the package, store them in a cool, dry place, and discard them if they look, smell, or taste off.
You should also avoid eating raw cashews, as they can cause a severe skin reaction due to the presence of urushiol.
Finally, remember, cashews are a nutritious and delicious food, but they need to be handled and consumed properly to avoid any adverse effects. Enjoy them in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.