Understand Why Eating Sushi Can Be A Problem
Sushi has gone from a Japanese speciality to a global favorite over the last 40 years. However, along with its popularity, there’s been a sharp increase in parasites found in raw fish, sushi’s main ingredient. This trend has raised serious health concerns.
Anisakid Nematodes
One of the most troubling parasites linked to sushi is the anisakid nematode. Species like Anisakis and Pseudoterranova, are often called “herring worms” or “cod worms”. They infect fish such as salmon, mackerel, and herring—popular choices for sushi. A 2020 study revealed a 283-fold increase in these parasites in fish over four decades. This is alarming because these worms can cause anisakiasis in humans, leading to severe stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Practices and Implications
Globalization of fishing practices has been on the rise and this has impacted the increase in sushi parasites. New concerns arose due to overfishing and the emergence of fish farming, which changed the marine habitats benefiting the parasites. It has worsened due to a decline in the number of predatory fish which by default act as natural assimilators of parasites. In addition, crowded fish farms are highly likely to be affected by parasites which are known to thrive well in such densities.
Globalization is also responsible for the trade of seafood around the world. Fish captured in a certain area is processed in another area and consumed in yet another area which makes it easier for parasites to contaminate the fish. Besides, with the increasing popularity of sushi globally, more chances of parasite-containing fish reaching the populace increases.
Climate’s Fault
Climate change is another key factor. Warming oceans have shifted the habitats of marine species, including fish that carry parasites. As fish move to new areas, they bring their parasites with them, spreading infections to new regions. For instance, as the North Atlantic warms, fish that used to stay in cooler waters are now found in warmer areas, carrying anisakid nematodes with them.
Additionally, changes in ocean currents and salinity have made marine parasites more resilient. This has led to higher infection rates in fish, increasing the risk of humans consuming infected sushi.
Related Infections
As parasites, especially in sushi-grade fish have risen, there has been a rising of sushi-borne infections in individuals. Anisakiasis, which is a rather rare disease, is on the rise today, especially in the regions where sushi is consumed. The symptoms are often very similar with many other disorders of the digestive system, and that is why it becomes difficult to diagnose. In severe cases, the parasite can invade the stomach or the intestines thereby causing conditions that may call for surgery.
As a result, to minimize the above risks, most countries insist that sushi-grade fish should undergo freezing as this kills most parasites. However, there are still confirmed anisakiasis cases, which raises the question of whether some fish are not frozen correctly or if some parasites are capable of withstanding that process.
A Public Health Concern
The rise in sushi parasites poses significant challenges for health authorities, the seafood industry, and consumers. As sushi’s popularity grows, so does the need for strict monitoring and regulation of the seafood supply. Ensuring that fish are frozen and handled correctly can help, but more research is needed to understand and address the problem.
Consumers help by being aware of the risks. So, when ordering it to eat while playing on the 20Bet platform, choose a reputable restaurant.
The past 40 years have seen a sharp increase in sushi parasites, driven by overfishing, climate change, and global trade. As sushi continues to delight diners worldwide, addressing these challenges is crucial to keeping this beloved cuisine safe.
