Custard Apple
Also known as: cherimoya
Custard apple flesh is consumed worldwide as a sweet tropical fruit. The seeds and bark of Annona species contain annonaceous acetogenins which have been studied for potential neurotoxicity in chronic high exposures (links to atypical parkinsonism in some epidemiological studies); the edible flesh consumed in normal amounts is generally regarded as safe.
What it is
Tropical fruit of Annona reticulata (and related Annona species), eaten fresh or used as flavor/pulp.
Whole fruit consumed fresh or as puree.
Why it's flagged
- Seeds contain neurotoxic acetogenins (do not consume)
- Some epidemiological links to atypical parkinsonism in heavy chronic consumers
What regulators actually say
"Annonaceous acetogenins ... are potent inhibitors of mitochondrial complex I ... and have been suspected of being involved in atypical parkinsonism in Guadeloupe."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Whole food
European Union — EFSA
Whole food
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