Pufferfish sales continue despite lethal risks

Despite the dangers of consuming pufferfish, it is still being sold in public markets in Malaysia, according to a report by The Straits Times.

The Malaysia Fish Suppliers’ Association has called for the sale of pufferfish to be halted to prevent further loss of life.

According to the association’s deputy president, Tai Wai Sun, several similar deaths were caused by pufferfish consumption.

One such case involved an elderly couple who bought pufferfish from a trader and died after consuming it. The family laid to rest Ng Chuan Sing at the Chamek Chinese Cemetery in Kluang, following the death of his wife Lim Siew Guan, who was buried there on March 29.

Pufferfish, also known as swellfish or blowfish, are a group of fish species belonging to the family Tetraodontidae. They are primarily found in warm and temperate regions worldwide, in saltwater and freshwater environments.

Pufferfish have fused teeth that form a beak-like structure, and they can inflate themselves with air and water when threatened.

While some pufferfish can grow up to 90cm in length, most are smaller. It’s important to note that many pufferfish species are toxic, containing tetrodotoxin, which is highly poisonous to humans.

Despite this, pufferfish are sometimes consumed as food in certain countries, including Japan, where it is considered a delicacy known as fugu.

However, due to the potential health risks associated with consuming this fish, it must be carefully prepared by a specially trained chef. The chef must remove all the internal organs containing the toxin, leaving only the non-toxic flesh, which is then carefully cooked and served in small portions.

In Malaysia, pufferfish can be bought at shops selling ornamental fish, but the sellers must be licensed to sell such a dangerous aquatic animal.

Johor Fisheries Department director Zainudin Abdul Wahab said earlier that pufferfish is not a popular food among Malaysians.

It is crucial to note that consuming pufferfish poses a significant health risk, and it is advisable to avoid eating it altogether.

The Malaysia Fish Suppliers’ Association has called for the sale of pufferfish to be stopped to prevent putting people’s health and lives at risk.