Yuca Warning!!!

Pancha's Kiosk, Philippines - In a story right out of a Shakespearean play, several dozens of people in the Philippines are in critical condition for eating poisonous yuca (cassava).

Nearly 30 elementary school children in the Philippines have died after eating fried cassava balls obtained from a vendor

Yuca is a poisonous root, and proper care has to be taken to extract its cyanide-related compounds. By carefully pressing the tubercle, the dangerous liquid can be extracted. Taí­no indians fermented this milky liquid to create a dangerous liquour-like substance. This should not be tried at home.

The victims suffered severe stomach pain, then vomiting and diarrhea after eating the snack during morning recess

The most common and safe way to prevent yuca poisoning is by cooking well the yuca. Raw yuca should be avoided at all costs! The vendor claimed to have carefully cooked the yuca treats.

The vendor who sold the cassava balls insisted nothing was wrong with them and ate a few to prove the point. Now she, too, is in critical condition.

Make sure you discuss with your children the dangers of yuca treats.