Harmful effects of eating raw oysters

Oysters are very good for your health, however eating raw oysters means introducing bacteria and viruses directly into your body, increasing the risk of food poisoning.

Elizabeth Barnes, a nutritionist in the US, said the reason for the increased risk of poisoning lies in the biological characteristics of oysters. Oysters are water-filtering organisms, they absorb all substances in the living environment, including bacteria, viruses and toxic substances.

When water sources are contaminated, disease-causing microorganisms from there can also accumulate in oysters, according to the health website Verywell Health .

Oysters are very good for your health, however eating raw oysters can increase the risk of food poisoning.

Photo: AI

Potential risks from vibrio and norovirus

One of the most common pathogens found in raw oysters is vibrio bacteria, which thrive in warm water environments.

As the global climate warms, rising ocean temperatures mean vibrio can survive in more areas year-round, meaning eating raw oysters is always a risk, no matter the season.

Norovirus is also a significant threat. This virus often causes symptoms of nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.

Noroviruses can survive harvesting, shipping, and storage. A fresh oyster that doesn't have an unusual odor can still contain millions of viruses that can make people sick.

Cooking oysters reduces the risk of poisoning

Cooking oysters to an internal temperature above 63°C kills most harmful microorganisms. However, no method is guaranteed to eliminate all pathogens. Eating raw oysters means introducing bacteria and viruses directly into your body, increasing your risk of food poisoning.

Spoiled oysters often have a strong, fishy or ammonia-like odor, which is especially noticeable after cooking. In these cases, the oysters should not be consumed because they may be contaminated or decomposed. However, odor alone cannot determine the safety of raw oysters. Some oysters containing pathogens may still give off a normal odor, making it easy for consumers to be subjective.

High risk for people with weak resistance

People with weakened immune systems, the elderly, pregnant women, or those with liver disease or diabetes are advised to avoid eating raw oysters altogether. When infected with vibrio or norovirus, these groups can experience more serious, even life-threatening complications. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and dehydration.

In many cases, food poisoning from raw oysters can lead to sepsis if not treated promptly.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/tac-hai-cua-viec-an-hau-song-18525102707494619.htm