Researchers are alerting sushi lovers around the world. Their favorite dish can cause a stomach flu from sea worms.
Fresh, delicious and infinitely versatile, sushi has become a must in France. Our country is also biggest consumer in Europe. While there are many varieties, the most popular are sushi, maki and sashimi. made with raw salmon or tuna.
But it can happen to be sick a few hours after eating sushi. As a general rule, we think this is due to fish that was no longer very fresh. However, the reason for this disease could be quite different.
Researchers from the University of Washington have carried out a study on the subject. And their findings are worrying: the raw fish we eat is increasingly contaminated with anisakis.
A contamination that has exploded in the space of 40 years
Anisakis are marine worms but above all parasites. These worms, which are present in large quantities in salt water, are first ingested by plankton. Then the latter is eaten by salmon, tuna and other fish used for sushi. However, anisaki continues to parasitize the flesh of its host.
If the flesh of a contaminated fish is used raw, it has a high chance of contaminating humans. And the phenomenon is all the more worrying as the population of anisakis has exploded. Between 1978 and 2015, the number of marine worms identified was multiplied by 283.
The risks of contamination are therefore significant, in particular if the fish has been improperly prepared. But despite this contamination, sea worms cause only minor symptoms.
What are the risks associated with eating contaminated sushi?
If you eat contaminated sushi, you may suffer from anisakiasis. This temporary disease has as characteristic symptoms vomiting, diarrhea and stomach flu. In this, it is quite similar to food poisoning.
And if you ever suffer from anisakiasis, don’t panic. Just like an intoxication, symptoms disappear naturally after a few days. However, if after 3 days the symptoms persist, it is recommended to consult a doctor.
To avoid this poisoning, choose a restaurant that you know and where the fish is prepared before your eyes. And for more vigilance, especially if you eat sashimi, do not hesitate to cut the fish before eating it. You will be able to see if a sea worm is present in the flesh or not.