The New South Wales Food Authority recently completed a study on Pine Mouth as far as the causes of it and any concerns linked to it. This condition goes by a couple of names, including Pine Mouth and Pine Nut Syndrome. Pine Mouth is the condition when someone who eats pine nuts regularly starts to taste something metallic and bitter all of the time. The problem can last for up to two weeks, but generally goes away within a few days.
The New Study
The new study focused on the number of cases reported of the syndrome and some interesting findings were noted.
- The number of Pine Mouth cases have increased since 2009.
- Pine Mouth seems to be caused by a particular type of pine nut.
- The species that is a problem is called Pinus Armandii and it is exported from China.
Response to the Study
Because of this new study, changes have been made by the Chinese government. Now, this particular type of pine nut is no longer exported to other countries from China. This is a method used to avoid other people suffering from Pine Mouth.
Another change that has been made was by the Codex Alimentarius Commission which added the particular species called Pinus Armandii to its inedible foods list. Additionally, Pinus Massoniana has been removed by the commission for the safety of consumers. Although, this second species has not yet been linked to the problem of Pine Mouth.
Lasting Effects
The good news is that there are no serious lasting effects of Pine Mouth. If you find yourself tasting the metallic and bitter taste, then simply stop eating the pine nuts. This will ensure that you are able to get over the symptoms quickly. Generally, the taste will go away in no more than two weeks.
Because of this new study, many steps are being taken to prevent pine mouth for those consumers in Australia.
