It’s the most toxic of marine creatures. The 17th-century well-known Japanese poet Basho wrote of its flavour and danger.
Called Fugu (Blowfish), this puffy looking fish contains poison that results in instant death. Its blood, liver and intestines contain a poison called tetrodotoxin which is “much, much deadlier than cyanide”. There is no antidote for its tetrodotoxin poisoning, which has been described as violent, with first symptoms of numbness, then paralysis and finally death. And the diner stays conscious to the end. But for years this fish has made it to the table with people considering it an epicurean pleasure. So why do people even try it?
Part so the reason folks want it is due to the tingling sensation that its flesh produces. It’s also said to have a unique flavour. But experts have warned against trying fugu. In addition, the fish also poses a danger to those handling it – there are plenty of incidences where death has occurred in kitchens when the fish has not been approached with appropriate caution. As per the Japanese law, the fugu can be exported only after it has been thoroughly cleaned and the toxic parts, removed.
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