Fugu, or pufferfish, is one of Japan’s most famous delicacies, but many foreigners are hesitant to try it due to its deadly poison. So, how do Japanese people eat fugu safely? Can you really die from eating it?
Don’t worry! This article explains why fugu is safe in Japan, the strict regulations, and how you can enjoy this unique dish without fear.
🐡 Why Is Fugu Poisonous?
Fugu contains tetrodotoxin, a powerful neurotoxin that can cause paralysis and even death. This poison is mainly found in the liver, ovaries, and skin.
🔪 Why Can Japanese People Eat Fugu Safely?
Despite its toxicity, fugu has been safely eaten in Japan for centuries. This is due to:
- Strict Regulations – Only licensed chefs can prepare fugu.
- Special Training – Chefs undergo at least 2–3 years of training and pass a difficult exam.
- Government Inspections – Fugu restaurants must follow strict food safety standards.
🎓 The Fugu License System in Japan
To become a certified fugu chef, one must:
- Complete at least 2–3 years of training.
- Pass a rigorous written and practical exam.
- Demonstrate the proper way to remove toxic parts.
Because of this system, fugu poisoning is extremely rare in licensed restaurants.
☠️ Has Anyone Ever Died from Eating Fugu?
Yes, but nearly all cases involve amateur preparation. According to Japanese health records:
- Most fugu-related deaths are due to home preparation, not restaurants.
- Between 2000 and 2020, there were about 23 deaths—almost all from people catching and cooking fugu themselves.
- No deaths have been reported from licensed restaurants in recent decades.
🍽️ How Is Fugu Eaten?
Fugu is enjoyed in several ways:
- Tessa (てっさ) – Thinly sliced fugu sashimi.
- Techiri (てっちり) – A hot pot dish with fugu meat.
- Fugu Karaage – Deep-fried fugu.
- Hire-zake – Sake infused with grilled fugu fins.
📜 Why Is Fugu Sashimi Called “Tessa”?
In Osaka dialect, “teppo” (鉄砲) means “gun,” and eating fugu was considered as dangerous as being shot! So, “tessa” (てっさ) is short for “teppo sashimi” (鉄砲刺身).
🔥 What About “Techiri”?
“Techiri” (てっちり) follows the same logic, combining “teppo” (gun) with “chiri-nabe” (hot pot).
🌍 Where Is the Best Place to Eat Fugu in Japan?
The best fugu comes from Shimonoseki, Yamaguchi Prefecture. This area is famous for high-quality fugu and has a long history of preparing it safely.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Fugu is poisonous, but highly regulated in Japan.
- Licensed chefs undergo years of training to ensure safety.
- Fugu deaths are extremely rare in professional restaurants.
- Shimonoseki is the best place to try high-quality fugu.
So, if you visit Japan, why not try this exquisite and safe delicacy? Have you ever tried fugu? Let us know in the comments!
