Incredibly Ingenious: Japanese Inventions You Can't Find Elsewhere
8. Fugu
What It Is: A Toxic Fish Consumed by Japanese People
Average Cost: $73 - $221 per Fugu Meal
Fugu, a delicacy made from pufferfish, is an adventurous culinary experience for those willing to take a risk. Known for its potentially lethal nature, fugu contains toxins that can be fatal to humans if not prepared correctly.
Chefs who serve fugu undergo extensive training and must adhere to strict regulations to ensure that only the safe, edible parts of the fish are used. This meticulous preparation is crucial to prevent contamination with the toxic elements.
Dining on fugu, or pufferfish, can be quite expensive, with some dishes exceeding $200 at certain establishments. This high price reflects not only the delicacy's status but also the risks involved in its preparation. Chefs are literally playing with fire, as more than 60% of fugu poisonings can result in death.
If someone accidentally consumes the toxic parts of the fish, they have less than an hour to seek respiratory care, as this is the only effective defense against the pufferfish's venom. This urgency highlights the serious nature of fugu dining and the importance of relying on skilled chefs who are trained to handle this dangerous delicacy.
