chelonitoxism

9 dead, 78 others hospitalized after eating sea turtle meat on Zanzibar’s Pemba Island

9 dead, 78 others hospitalized after eating sea turtle meat on Zanzibar’s Pemba Island. What a tragic and avoidable situation. The concept of chelonitoxism, a severe poisoning caused by consuming contaminated sea turtle meat, should be enough to deter anyone from trying this risky delicacy. There is no antidote for this condition, and the consequences can be fatal, as evidenced by the recent deaths on Pemba Island.

I can’t help but wonder why anyone would take the chance of eating something that poses such a significant risk. The idea of consuming an endangered species alone should be enough to dissuade anyone from partaking in such a meal.… Continue reading

9 dead, 78 others hospitalized after eating sea turtle meat on Zanzibar’s Pemba Island

It is truly disheartening to hear about the tragic incident that occurred on Zanzibar’s Pemba Island, where 9 people lost their lives and 78 others were hospitalized after consuming sea turtle meat. The cause of this devastating outcome was chelonitoxism, a type of food poisoning that can result from eating turtles, particularly the hawksbill sea turtle in this case. These turtles, which are already critically endangered, become poisonous for consumption when they feed on toxic sponges as part of their diet.

As I reflect on this unfortunate event, it becomes evident that the consequences of engaging in harmful practices like consuming endangered species can be dire.… Continue reading