Travel Expert Warns Against Consuming 10 Risky Foods Around the World

Julianna Marshall, a travel expert from the International Drivers Association, has identified 10 foods from various countries that travelers should consider avoiding due to potential health risks, ethical concerns, and cultural sensitivity. The list includes pufferfish eggs in the Philippines, hoochero in Venezuela, Casu Marzu cheese in Sardinia, giant bullfrogs in Namibia, fried spiders in Cambodia, raw blood soup in Vietnam, sunset moth caterpillars in Madagascar, ackee fruit in Jamaica, sannakji in South Korea, and blood clams in Shanghai.

Marshall stresses the significance for travelers to be aware of what they eat, not just for their own health but also to promote a respectful global community. She provides details on the specific risks and concerns associated with each of the listed foods.

For example, pufferfish eggs in the Philippines can be poisonous if not prepared properly, while the Casu Marzu cheese from Sardinia contains live insect larvae that can jump up to 6 inches. In Cambodia, fried spiders are a popular street food but may carry parasites. The ackee fruit in Jamaica is toxic if consumed before it is fully ripe.

Beyond health risks, some of the foods raise ethical and cultural sensitivity issues. Eating giant bullfrogs in Namibia and blood clams in Shanghai has led to overharvesting and ecological damage. The consumption of sunset moth caterpillars in Madagascar, considered a delicacy, threatens the species' survival.

Marshall's list serves as a valuable resource for travelers seeking to navigate the complex world of global cuisine safely and ethically. By highlighting these 10 risky foods, she aims to cultivate a greater sense of awareness and cultural sensitivity among the international travel community.

Key Takeaways

• Travel expert identifies 10 risky foods to avoid globally
• Risks include health, ethics, and cultural sensitivity concerns
• Examples: pufferfish eggs, Casu Marzu cheese, fried spiders
• Overharvesting and ecological damage for some foods
• Promoting informed, responsible, and culturally sensitive travel