Apricot kernels could be 'hidden health hazard'

Europe's food safety watchdog warns the latest 'superfood' contains a compound that is converted to cyanide in the body at harmful levels

They have been billed as a new "superfood", bursting with vitamins, with potential cancer-fighting properties, and a vital ingredient in detoxes. They even appear in wholesome jams made by Delia Smith.

But apricot kernels could be a hidden health hazard, Europe's food safety watchdog said on Wednesday.