[Poisoning by kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris)]

During recent years, numerous new and exotic fruits have become available in Denmark. However, some of these may be potentially hazardous if incorrectly prepared. Some leguminous plants, in particular, contain considerable amounts of toxic lectins. The authors report two persons who developed severe symptoms of poisoning including diarrhoea, vomiting, muscular pain, rhabdomyolysis and toxic myocarditis after consuming raw and insufficiently cooked kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris). Meticulous instructions about handling should accompany the sale of potentially hazardous vegetables such as these.