Fugu is one of Japan's best known dishes because it's poisonous when not prepared properly. But how dangerous is fugu?

Fugu Poisonings in Japan

The Japanese government maintains statistics about fugu poisoning. Each year there are 20 to 44 fugu poisonings in Japan.

Survival Rate in Japan

Contrary to popular myth, fugu poisoning isn't always fatal. The fatality rate in Japan is only 6.8%. The most fatalities in one year was 6 in Japan. Some years there are no fatalities at all.

Survival Rate Outside Japan

The survival rate for fugu poisoning outside Japan isn't tracked. It's likely lower. Japanese hospitals are equipped to treat fugu poisoning but hospitals in other countries may not be.

Japan has strict regulations and training for fugu chefs. This makes fugu far safer in Japan. Some countries, such as the United States require that fugu chefs be certified in Japan.

Amateur Fugu Chefs

Many incidents of fugu poisoning in Japan are fisherman or other amateur fugu chefs who attempt to prepare fugu at home.

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