Sushi is a popular Japanese dish that has gained popularity all over the world. It is often regarded as a healthy food choice as it consists of raw fish and vegetables. However, sushi can make you sick if it is not prepared or handled properly.

In this article, we will look at the reasons why sushi can make you sick and what you can do to avoid getting sick from sushi.

Bacteria and Parasites in Raw Fish

Raw fish is a staple ingredient in sushi, and it is what gives sushi its unique taste. However, raw fish can also contain bacteria and parasites that can make you sick. Some common types of bacteria found in raw fish include Vibrio and Salmonella.

These bacteria can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Parasites such as tapeworms and roundworms can also be present in raw fish. These parasites can cause serious health problems such as stomach pain, weight loss, and anemia.

To avoid getting sick from raw fish, it is essential to make sure that the fish is fresh and properly handled. Raw fish should be stored at the right temperature and should be consumed as soon as possible.

Cross-Contamination

Cross-contamination can also occur when preparing sushi. This happens when bacteria from one food item is transferred to another.

For example, if a knife is used to cut raw fish and then used to cut vegetables without being properly cleaned, bacteria from the fish can be transferred to the vegetables. This can cause food poisoning and can make you sick.

To avoid cross-contamination, it is essential to clean all utensils and surfaces that come into contact with raw fish. Make sure to use different knives and cutting boards for raw fish and vegetables to avoid cross-contamination.

Food Poisoning from Sushi

Food poisoning is another reason why sushi can make you sick. Food poisoning can occur from eating sushi that has been contaminated with bacteria such as E.coli or Salmonella. Symptoms of food poisoning include stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fever.

Severe cases of food poisoning can lead to hospitalization.

To avoid food poisoning from sushi, it is important to make sure that the sushi is fresh and properly prepared. It is also essential to make sure that the restaurant or store where you are purchasing sushi from follows proper food handling procedures.

Mercury Poisoning from Sushi

Raw fish, especially larger predator fish such as tuna, can also contain high levels of mercury. Mercury is a toxic element that can cause serious health problems such as damage to the nervous system, kidneys, and brain.

Related Article The dangers of consuming raw fish

To avoid mercury poisoning from sushi, it is important to limit your consumption of sushi that contains high levels of mercury.

Pregnant women and young children are at a higher risk of mercury poisoning and should avoid consuming large amounts of sushi.

Allergies from Sushi

Sushi can also cause allergic reactions in some people. Raw fish and shellfish allergies are common and can cause symptoms such as hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Some people can also be allergic to the rice vinegar used in sushi rice.

If you have a history of food allergies, make sure to inform the restaurant or store where you are purchasing sushi from. They can provide you with a list of ingredients used in the sushi and help you make an informed choice.

Contaminated Water

Sushi rice is often made using water that has been boiled and cooled. If the water used to make the sushi rice is contaminated with bacteria, the bacteria can grow in the rice. This can cause food poisoning and can make you sick.

To avoid contaminated water, make sure to use clean and fresh water when making sushi rice. If you are unsure about the quality of the water, it is better to use bottled water or water that has been treated.

Fake Sushi

With the popularity of sushi, there has been an increase in the production of fake sushi. Fake sushi is made using ingredients that resemble sushi but are not actual fish or vegetables.

Fake sushi can be made using chemicals and additives that can be harmful to your health.

To avoid fake sushi, it is important to purchase sushi from a reputable restaurant or store. Avoid purchasing sushi from street vendors or places that have a questionable reputation.

Always make sure that the fish and vegetables used in the sushi are fresh and of good quality.

Conclusion

Sushi can make you sick if it is not prepared or handled properly. Raw fish can contain bacteria and parasites that can cause food poisoning. Cross-contamination can occur when preparing sushi and can lead to food poisoning.

Mercury poisoning can also occur from consuming raw fish that contains high levels of mercury. Allergic reactions and contaminated water can also make you sick. To avoid getting sick from sushi, it is essential to make sure that the sushi is fresh, properly prepared, and handled with care.