Warning about the Risks of Consuming Raw Foods like Liver and Tripe

Parasite Infection Can Potentially Invade the Liver, Lungs, Brain, and Eyes

Caution: Vascular Damage May Lead to Blood Clots and Stroke

Liver Flukes in Freshwater Fish Pose a Risk of Bile Duct Cancer if Left Untreated

Lung Fluke Infection Can Cause Severe Complications Such as Lung Damage and Brain Hemorrhage

Experts have issued warnings that consuming certain foods-such as beef liver or tripe-raw, rather than thoroughly cooked, can lead to parasite infections and severe complications.

On April 20, in a video posted on the YouTube channel "Jisik Hansang," Professor Kwon Hyuk Soo of the Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology at Asan Medical Center in Seoul warned about the dangers of eating raw foods such as beef liver, raw tripe, raw lamb, and freshwater fish sashimi.

Professor Kwon first stated, "Beef liver or tripe should absolutely never be consumed raw." He explained that, although hygiene standards have improved compared to the past, the risk of infection from beef liver or tripe still remains. In particular, if parasites migrate beyond the intestines to organs such as the liver, lungs, brain, or eyes, they can trigger severe inflammatory responses.

During this process, not only can organ function decline, but vascular damage may also occur, leading to blood clot formation and, in severe cases, even resulting in stroke. If parasites invade the eyes, it can result in vision loss or even blindness.

Marine fish sashimi can also potentially be infected with Anisakiasis parasites

Anisakis infection may cause acute abdominal pain and peritonitis

Some patients may experience shock reactions accompanied by difficulty breathing

Experts warn that the perception that prevention is possible with antiparasitic drugs is dangerous

Experts emphasize that the safest method is to eat thoroughly cooked food

Freshwater fish sashimi was also highlighted as a food that requires caution. Carp and Chinese muddy loach, for example, can harbor liver flukes-parasites that reside in the bile ducts of the liver and can cause chronic inflammation.

The problem is that initial symptoms are almost nonexistent, making it difficult to recognize the infection. If left untreated for a long period, it can progress to serious conditions such as bile duct cancer, so vigilance is necessary.

Freshwater crabs and crayfish are no exception. Professor Kwon noted, "These can contain lung flukes, which may damage lung tissue and, in severe cases, cause hemoptysis, epilepsy, or brain hemorrhage."

Even marine fish sashimi, which is generally considered safer, also requires caution. The most notable parasite, Anisakis (herring worm), is found around the intestines and can enter the human body during consumption.

Infection may cause acute abdominal pain or peritonitis, and in some cases, allergic reactions can occur. In severe instances, this can progress to anaphylactic shock, accompanied by difficulty breathing and low blood pressure.

Professor Kwon stressed, "The idea that parasite infections can be prevented with medication is dangerous," and emphasized, "The most reliable method is to thoroughly cook food before eating."