How is sago starch obtained from certain cycad stems?

Starch is obtained from the pithy stems of certain cycads, such as the sago palm (Cycas revoluta), by extracting the starchy material found within the stem's central portion.123

It is essential to note that, unlike starch derived from true sago palms, extracts from cycad stems contain a dangerous neurotoxin called cycasin. Consequently, this material must undergo thorough processing—typically involving extensive washing and careful cooking—to remove the toxin and make the starch safe for human consumption.142

Because many cycad species are currently endangered or critically endangered due to overharvesting, it is an ethical imperative to respect conservation laws and avoid the illegal collection of these plants from the wild.2