Botulism from Fermented Fish: The Hidden Risks of Gut Health Trends | Episode 163

🍽️ Francine and Matt are building a global, fun, and inclusive Food Safety Family! From the C-suite to the kitchen, they’re making safe food the norm everywhere.👉 Follow Francine and Matt on LinkedIn for more food safety insights and updates.In this eye-opening (and slightly stomach-turning) episode of Don’t Eat Poop!, our hosts Matt and Francine dive headfirst into a real-life case of botulism caused by fermented fish and why “gut health trends” can go dangerously wrong.What started as a health-conscious bite of fermented “swordfish” turned into a near-death experience for a 24-year-old woman, highlighting critical gaps in foodborne illness prevention and consumer awareness.From ancient food preservation methods to modern-day food safety compliance, this episode explores how traditional practices can clash with today’s expectations and why HACCP principles aren’t just for professionals anymore.Spoiler: if it smells like death, maybe don’t eat it.In this episode:00:00:00 Botulism from Homemade Fermented Swordfish00:04:05 Escalating Symptoms: Difficulty Swallowing, Paralysis00:07:00 What Fermented “Swordfish” Actually Is00:12:24 Cultural Food and Food Safety00:19:15 Safe Alternatives for Gut HealthDisclaimer: Episode title and content do not constitute legal or health advice.Resources from this episodeFood Safety Compliance in Home Kitchens: The Hidden Risks of Social Media Food Businesses | Episode 162How to Clean Your Refrigerator Properly: This is Food Safety at Home | Episode 159Noteworthy quotes from this episode“If your choices are occasionally getting foodborne illness or starving to death, I will choose the former over the latter, but if I'm not starving, I'm not going to choose option number one.” – Matt Regusci“There are people who, if they do live, they don't completely recover from botulism. You live with lifelong ramifications from this illness.” – Francine L ShawWe hope you enjoy this episode!Remember to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast on your favorite podcast platform. Together, we can raise awareness and make a positive impact in the world of food safety!Share your thoughts and feedback on the show, and feel free to offer any topics you would like to hear discussed.We'd love to hear from you!📲 Connect with Francine, Matt, and the "Don't Eat Poop!" show on LinkedIn!📕 Check out Francine's book Who Watches the Kitchen?🎙️ BE A GUEST ON DON’T EAT POOP!Fill out this form to tell us more about yourself. We’ll reach out via email within 30 days with next steps if you’re selected._______Produced by Ideablossoms