It’s fragrant, refreshing, and a staple in many Southeast Asian kitchens — but did you know that one of the world’s most surprising “deadly foods” might be sitting in your pantry?
We’re talking about pueraria, commonly known as kudzu root or sắn dây in Vietnam. Despite its natural health benefits and centuries of traditional use, this innocent-looking plant has a dark side. Each year, over 200 people are believed to die globally from improper preparation or confusion with toxic look-alikes — and yet, millions still consume it daily.
