Many types of fish harbor parasites, including the liver fluke. People can contract liver fluke disease by eating raw or undercooked fish.
Once inside the body, liver flukes can cause:
✔ Severe liver damage
✔ Abscesses and cirrhosis
✔ Blockage of the bile ducts and gallbladder infections
🔸 Safe Consumption Tip: Always cook fish properly to eliminate parasites.
6. Raw Shrimp and Crab
Raw shrimp and crab are often infested with parasites, particularly lung flukes.
Once inside the human body, lung flukes:
✔ Settle in the lungs
✔ Cause chronic cough and coughing up blood
✔ Can lead to severe lung infections
🔸 Safe Consumption Tip: Avoid eating raw or marinated shrimp and crab (e.g., fermented or vinegar-soaked dishes). Cooking is essential to destroy parasites.
7. Water Chestnuts
Water chestnuts (Chinese water nuts) are nutritious and commonly eaten raw. However, they are grown in damp, muddy environments, making them susceptible to bacterial and parasitic contamination.
🔸 Safe Consumption Tip: Always peel thoroughly before eating or cook them in soups or stir-fries.
8. Water Caltrops
Water caltrops (trapa nuts) are rich in vitamins and minerals and often used in soups. However, they grow in muddy rice fields, making them vulnerable to harmful bacteria and parasites.
🔸 Safe Consumption Tip: Boil in hot water for at least 15 seconds before using.
Final Thoughts
While these foods are delicious and nutritious, they can harbor dangerous parasites if not handled properly. To protect your health:
✅ Wash ingredients thoroughly
✅ Cook food at high temperatures to kill parasites
✅ Avoid eating raw or undercooked meats, seafood, and wild game
✅ Use proper food hygiene practices
Always prioritize food safety to prevent dangerous infections!
