Tag: Barracuda

While barracuda is a popular food in many tropical regions, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises against eating it due to the potential for ciguatera fish poisoning. This serious foodborne illness is caused by ciguatoxins that accumulate in the fish's flesh. Understanding the risks of eating barracuda is crucial for your health.

While many cultures enjoy barracuda, the CDC notes ciguatera fish poisoning is an under-recognized risk for travelers consuming certain tropical fish, including barracuda. The key to consuming this predatory fish safely often lies in its size and origin, with smaller specimens typically posing a much lower risk of toxin accumulation.

Ciguatera fish poisoning is a common seafood-related illness, with thousands of cases reported each year in tropical areas. Knowing what fish to avoid is critical because the toxin can't be detected by taste, smell, or appearance.

According to the CDC, certain types of fish poisoning are an under-recognized risk for travelers, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. It is vital to know what poisonous fish you should not eat to protect your health and avoid dangerous illnesses from seafood consumption.

Recent studies suggest that ciguatera poisoning, a major risk from eating barracuda in Florida, is more common than previously reported, particularly in South Florida coastal communities. So, is it safe to eat barracuda in Florida, or does the potential for illness outweigh the culinary reward?