Did you know that there are foods out there that could kill? We’re not talking about choking on chewing gum or getting a fish bone stuck in your throat. Some foods can be toxic and poisonous but people still eat and enjoy them. Would you put your life at risk for a meal?
This month, in a two part article, we’ll tell you about some of the most dangerous foods and beverages, so that you can decide for yourself!
Durian
The world’s smelliest food is also a dangerous one. Uncooked durian seeds contain cyclopropene fatty acids, which are toxic in nature. The fruit can also be deadly when combined with alcohol as it hampers the body’s process of breaking down alcohol’s unhealthy by-products.
Blood Clams
Thankfully, blood clams are not that common. They live in deeper waters than other varieties of clams and because of this, they are exposed to more viruses and bacteria. Being careless with these could cause Hepatitis A, typhoid and dysentery.
Raw Milk
The milk from the supermarket is usually pasteurized (heated to a high temperature to kill germs) because unpasteurized milk may contain bacteria such as Salmonella, E.Coli and Listeria, which can cause severe illnesses.
African Bullfrog
Frog legs are immensely popular in China but if you’re ever in places such as Namibia, watch out for this particular bullfrog dish. The locals know that these are only to be consumed after they have mated, but it’s always a risk with this one. Get it wrong and the toxins could give you kidney failure!
Fugu (Puffer Fish)
This Japanese delicacy is for the daredevils. The liver, ovaries and intestines of the puffer fish contain high amounts of tetrodotoxin, a potentially fatal compound for humans. Some studies claim that these toxins are hundreds of times more harmful than cyanide!
Mushrooms
Not all mushrooms are created equal. Apart from their hallucinogenic nature, some mushrooms such as the Destroying Angels, the Deathcap and the Deadly Webcap can be fatal.
Sannakji (Baby Octopus)
This Korean favorite is basically served raw. Since the suction cups on the raw tentacles are still active when served, they can grip the inside of the throat and cause choking. When eating this, remember to chew properly and swallow quickly!
Leafy Greens
Spinach, lettuce, cabbage, arugula and kale were listed as the riskiest foods in a 2009 study, according to the FDA. They may be contaminated by a pathogen called the Nirovirus, which is usually spread by the unwashed hands of an ill food handler or consumer.
So, now that you know about some of the most dangerous foods, always ensure that you pick a trustworthy source for your everyday stuff such as mushrooms, milk, leafy greens and so on.
Whether you like living on the edge or would like to be aware and steer clear of such foods, we’ve got more interesting facts about dangerous foods coming your way. Look out for part II of this article!
If you liked this article, be sure to check out the photo and the QR code below for more fun health facts.
This article is sponsored by Sanfine Hospital
Photos: Acquired by Sanfine Hospital
