Wonder

Rapeseed/Canola Toxicity

Delivered March 28, 2020. Contributor: Joseph M.

Goals

To find information on rapeseed plant/canola being toxic even if it is non-gmo and planted without the excessive use of pesticides and herbicides. 

Early Findings

According to Mayo Clinic, "rapeseed oil contains very high levels of erucic acid, a compound that in large amounts can be toxic to humans. Canola oil, however, contains very low levels of erucic acid."
An article in the Science Daily points to the fact that the canola plant can be genetically programmed in order to reduce the toxic substances the plant produces in its seeds -- thus making it more palatable. This information points to the fact that the canola plant can be toxic to humans.
The canola plant has special cells that produce toxic substances that are part of the plant's defense mechanism. 
The plant activates its toxic defense mechanisms in special situations such as when an insect begins feeding on a leaf. 
Articles that talk about the research subject exist in the public domain. Examples of such articles follows belows:
Ask the Expert: Concerns about canola oil.
Is Canola Oil Healthy? All You Need to Know.
 Toxic Canola Oil Warning. 
Is Ordinary Use of Canola Oil Dangerous?
CANSA Is Canola Oil Poisonous?

Proposed next steps:

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