The bitter apricot kernel is the seed found inside the hard stone of the apricot (Prunus armeniaca). Unlike the sweet apricot kernel used in confectionery, the bitter kernel has a pronounced flavour due to its amygdalin content, a compound naturally present in many stone-fruit pits (peach, cherry, plum). Since 2022, EU regulation has strictly limited the food use of these kernels: they are no longer authorised for sale as a food product in the European Union and must be used for non-food purposes only, notably cosmetic and craft applications.

Santé Bio Europe’s bitter apricot kernels come from Uzbekistan, a region with a millennia-old tradition of apricot growing. The continental climate and altitude of Uzbek orchards produce particularly aromatic apricots, whose stones are harvested, cleaned, dried and hand-selected. The resealable kraft pouch preserves freshness and natural compounds.

Bitter apricot kernel oil is a plant oil sought after in cosmetics for its softening and protective properties. Rich in oleic acid, vitamin E and phytosterols, it is traditionally used for massage, facial care and as a hair oil. Cold-pressing the kernels yields a pure, solvent-free oil for homemade beauty preparations: anti-ageing serums, lip balms, cleansing oils or cuticle care.

Finely ground, the kernels can also form the base of gentle exfoliating scrubs, alone or blended with neutral oils. Their natural texture suits normal to dry skin.

Nutritional values per 100 g of kernels: Energy 624 kcal / 2,613 kJ; Fat 50.8 g (of which saturates 4.2 g); Carbohydrates 13.4 g (of which sugars 0 g); Fibre 0.8 g; Protein 23.6 g; Sodium 0.004 g (salt 0.01 g); Potassium 599 mg; Calcium 26 mg; Magnesium 234 mg; Phosphorus 508 mg; Vitamin B17 0.810 mg; Vitamin E 4 mg. The kernels are naturally rich in magnesium, phosphorus and vitamin E, with no added flavours, colours or preservatives.

Store the pouch in a cool, dry place away from light and heat, and reseal it carefully after each use to preserve freshness. Keep out of reach of young children.

Important warning: since 2022, organic bitter apricot kernels are no longer authorised for human consumption in the European Union. They naturally contain hydrocyanic acid and can cause symptoms of poisoning if eaten. This product is sold exclusively for non-food use (cosmetic, craft, home oil-pressing).

Can bitter apricot kernels be eaten?

No. Under the new 2022 EU regulation, organic bitter apricot kernels are no longer authorised for human consumption in the EU. This product is intended for non-food use only, primarily cosmetic (oil, scrubs, skincare).

How do you extract oil from apricot kernels?

Extracting oil requires a home oil press. The kernels are ground or crushed, then cold-pressed to extract a pale yellow oil with a characteristic scent. This oil can then be filtered and used in cosmetic care.

What’s the difference between bitter and sweet apricot kernels?

The bitter kernel (used here) contains amygdalin, giving it a pronounced bitter taste. The sweet kernel, used in baking and confectionery, contains no amygdalin and has a neutral almond-like taste. Only the sweet kernel is authorised for food use.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.