Poisoning, nausea and even death: 5 dangerous foods in the world

Most foods appear to be safe. But in fact, not all of them can be eaten without special preparation. Namely - careful selection of the product, heat treatment and removal of inedible or toxic parts. The edition told in more detail with the BBC.

If this is not done, certain foods can cause dangerous symptoms - nausea, nervous breakdown, or even death.

These five products pose the greatest risk.

1. Puffer fish

Puffer fish is deadly poisonous.

It contains the dangerous substance tetrodotoxin, which is absorbed extremely quickly and is fatal. Tetrodotoxin is more toxic than cyanide.

Despite this, in some countries, fugu is considered an exquisite delicacy.

In Japan, puffer is usually served raw or added to soups.

Chefs undergo extensive training over several years before they are allowed to cook fish and serve it to customers.

To make the dish safe, cooks carefully remove the poisonous parts of the fish - the brain, skin, eyes, ovaries, liver and intestines.

2. Cheese cassu marzu

Cassu Marzu cheese is known for containing live cheese fly larvae.

Although it doesn't sound very appetizing, it is considered a delicacy in Sardinia.

On the subject: In the US, food prices rose record: what and how much has risen in price

Cassu marzu is made from Sardinian pecorino, a parmesan-like cheese, with the addition of larvae.

They speed up the decomposition process, which makes the cheese very soft, and even runny inside.

The specific taste, similar to gorgonzola, is given to the cheese by the digestion products of the larvae.

There are several factors to consider before trying a delicacy.

Firstly, to swallow a piece, you need a fair amount of dexterity - the larvae can jump up to 15 cm.

Secondly, finding this cheese is not easy. Kassu marzu is not on the EU food list and is therefore not exported.

And finally, it is no coincidence that cash marzu is called "the most dangerous cheese in the world" - it can cause serious harm to health.

First of all, it is dangerous to eat cheese with dead larvae, as this means that it is gone.

Consuming stale cheese can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea.

3. Rhubarb

Rhubarb stalks are used as food by many people, including the British. It is an ingredient in many desserts and drinks.

However, you need to be very careful with this product, as green rhubarb leaves contain a poisonous substance.

It is oxalic acid, which in high doses causes nausea, interferes with the absorption of minerals, and can contribute to the development of kidney stones.

Scientists argue a lot about exactly how much oxalic acid is dangerous to humans.

Although death can only come from a very large number of leaves, it is better not to eat them at all.

4. Red beans and soy

In general, beans and beans are good for your health. But if some types of legumes are improperly cooked, they can cause unpleasant symptoms.

This is especially true for red beans and soybeans.

Although these plants are high in protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals, they also have a type of fat, phytohemaglutinin, which our bodies cannot digest.

On the subject: 5 convenient online grocery delivery services in New York

May cause severe stomach pain and vomiting. But this can be avoided if you cook the beans properly. Before boiling it, the beans must be soaked for at least 12 hours.

This helps eliminate another natural toxin in legumes, the enzyme trypsin, which also interferes with digestion.

5. Nutmeg

This famous spice grows on trees in Indonesia.

Nutmeg is a must-have in biscuits as well as a flavorful addition to puddings.

In addition to desserts, nutmeg is also added to many dishes: potatoes, meats, sauces, vegetables and some drinks.

However, if consumed in large quantities, it can have dire side effects: nausea, pain, choking, and cramps, as well as mental disorders.

Nutmeg food poisoning rarely causes death, but it is an extremely unpleasant experience.

The fact is that for centuries, nutmeg has been a common hallucinogen.