But lychees are not the only produce with the potential to poison us if eaten too early or unprocessed. As the national fruit -- and national symbol -- of Jamaica, it is a key part of the country's national meal: ackee and saltfish. Starfruit contain toxins that affect the brain and can cause neurological disorders, says the National Kidney Foundation in the US. "If a child eats that fungus, it can cause death or lifelong neurological disease," Spencer said. Two toxins, known as cycasin and BMAA , within the plant must be removed before any part can be safely eaten.

Source: CNN April 10, 2017 07:52 UTC