Certain edible plants contain the organic compound nicotine. While often associated with tobacco, this substance is also present in other members of the nightshade family. The concentration levels vary significantly depending on the specific plant and growing conditions. For instance, tomatoes and potatoes contain trace amounts, considerably less than found in tobacco leaves.
The presence of this compound in various foods is generally inconsequential for human health due to the minimal quantities. Historically, the recognition of its existence in common foods provides a more complete understanding of the substance’s distribution in the natural world, moving beyond its primary association with tobacco products. This knowledge allows for a more nuanced perspective on dietary intake and potential physiological effects, however small.
