Do not consume improperly prepared ackee
Dear Editor,
The Manchester Health Department is urging the public to be cautious in the preparation and consumption of ackee to avoid poisoning. Five cases of ackee poisoning have been reported in Manchester in the past two weeks.
Medical Officer of Health for Manchester Dr Nadine Williams has explained that only fit and well-opened ackees are to be used as ackee should be allowed to open naturally and fully on the tree before it is picked and eaten or sold. She said that improperly prepared ackee can lead to a high level of the hypoglycin toxin, which is usually found in higher quantities in the unripe fruit, particularly in the seed and the pink or red membrane inside the fit fruit.
When preparing ackee the seed and pink/red membrane should be removed, the ackee washed, and then boiled by itself, after which the water must be discarded.
Symptoms of ackee poisoning include vomiting, stomach cramps, abdominal pain, dizziness, diarrhoea, and sweating. Blood sugar levels can fall to a critically low level leading to death.
If these symptoms are experienced after an ackee meal, it is important to seek medical attention immediately and have a sweet drink on the way to the hospital.
Southern Regional Health Authority