Are bitter cucumbers safe to eat?

Answer:

It is a common practice to slice off both ends of a cucumber and rub them against the remaining portion to extract the bitter sap. This bitter component, known as cucurbitacin, serves as a defense mechanism for the plant against harmful insects. While the bitterness itself is not harmful, it does detract from the cucumber’s quality and flavor.

In cases where the cucumber is bitter in the middle, astringent, and spongy, it is advisable to discard it as it may pose health risks. Identifying chemically contaminated cucumbers through simple observation is challenging unless the contamination is severe. Still, you should avoid purchasing and consuming cucumbers that appear spoiled, indicated by excessive yellow spots or a wilted, mushy texture.

Cucumber slices. Illustration photo by Pixabay

Prior to consumption, cucumbers should be soaked in salt water for 10 minutes, then peeled and the ends removed.

Cucumbers are a valuable source of nutrients, including plant compounds and antioxidants, and are low in calories, making them ideal for those trying to lose weight and maintain fitness. Nonetheless, consuming cucumbers in large quantities may lead to indigestion and increased urination.

Excessive cucumber consumption can also result in too much potassium, which may cause bloating and stomach pain. Individuals with intestinal problems, compromised digestive systems, or kidney disease should exercise caution when eating cucumbers.

Dr. Nguyen Duy Thinh

Former lecturer at Institute of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Hanoi University of Science and Technology