Can Saponin Make You Sick?

But for some people, eating quinoa may cause stomachaches, itchy skin, hives, and other common symptoms of food allergies. The seed and its coating contain the compound saponin, which could cause these symptoms.

Can you eat saponin?

As previously mentioned, most saponin is on the quinoa seed; therefore most of it can be removed before consumption, but this involves a variety of processing techniques that are still in development. Saponin removal is generally accomplished though either “wet” or “dry” methods, or a combination.

Can you get sick from unwashed quinoa?

Some people are particularly sensitive to saponins, which is why unrinsed cooked quinoa has a reputation for tasting bitter. However, most quinoa that is sold in packages has been "pre-rinsed," which means the saponins have been removed and rinsing isn't necessary.