Parasites associated with exotic food

Abstract

The short description of parasites associated with “exotic food” is by no means inclusive. Many others, such as Toxoplasma gondii, Spirometa spp. (sparganosis), Taenia saginata (cysticercosis), and Echinostoma malayanum, are transmitted via food. Raw sheep liver “sowda” is commonly consumed in Lebanon. Many people developed human toxocariasis after eating this dish (19). The economic loss associated with food-borne parasitic zoonoses is of significant consequence. The estimated impact of Opisthorchis viverrini infection in northern Thailand alone is estimated at 120 million U.S. dollars. Medical costs in the U.S. associated with trichinellosis alone are estimated at 1.5 to 2 million dollars annually (20). in addition to the economic impact of these parasites, significant morbidity and mortality can occur. Also the discomfort and presence of worms migrating through the body is certainly distressful. However, to completely avoid many, if not all, parasitic infections, thoroughly cook all food before ingestion. In addition, if the fish or meat has been frozen, then the larvae could be killed.