Can you still eat sugarcane if it turns red in the middle?

　　Sugar cane is sweet and juicy and is a favorite snack for many people. However, sometimes when you peel the sugar cane, you will find redness in the middle. Can you still eat sugarcane if it turns red in the middle? Who needs to be careful when consuming sugar cane?

Can you still eat sugarcane if it turns red in the middle?

　　Sugar cane that is red in the middle cannot be eaten. This redness phenomenon is mostly due to the contamination of sugarcane by Arthrospora mold. The mold reproduces in large quantities under suitable temperature and humidity and produces highly toxic 3-nitropropionic acid. This toxin is extremely stable and cannot be destroyed by ordinary washing, peeling or heating. After accidental ingestion, the toxins will damage the nervous system and digestive system, and symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and dizziness may occur. In severe cases, it may cause disturbance of consciousness, convulsions, and even life-threatening conditions. There is no specific antidote, which is extremely harmful.

Who should be careful about when eating sugar cane?

　　1. Children’s group

　　Children's body organs are immature, their liver detoxification function is weak, and they are more sensitive to toxins such as 3-nitropropionic acid. Ingestion of a small amount may cause serious reactions. Adults must carefully check the status of sugar cane before consuming it.

　　2. Elderly people

　　The elderly have reduced digestive function and metabolic capacity and relatively weak immunity. After eating spoiled sugar cane, not only are they prone to gastrointestinal discomfort, but the toxins are also excreted more slowly, which will increase the burden on the body.

　　3. Diabetic patients

　　Sugar cane contains extremely high sugar, and its main component is sucrose. Eating it will cause blood sugar to rise rapidly in a short period of time for diabetic patients, which is not conducive to blood sugar control and may induce complications. They should be strictly controlled or avoided.

　　4. People with weak gastrointestinal function

　　Even fresh sugar cane has a high sugar content. Excessive consumption by people with weak gastrointestinal function may irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa and cause abdominal distension, diarrhea and other discomforts, so the consumption needs to be controlled.

　　5. Dental patients

　　Sugar cane has a hard texture, damaged tooth enamel, and people with dental caries or periodontitis. Biting sugar cane can easily aggravate tooth damage, and may also cause gum bleeding, pain, and other problems. It is recommended to squeeze the juice for drinking or avoid eating it.

　　When purchasing sugarcane, you should choose sugarcane with a bright appearance, hard texture, and even internodes. If you find any odor, soft texture, or discoloration in the middle, be sure to discard it directly and don't take chances.