Source: Natural Products Market Place

On its consumer Web site, Every Day Health, FDA offers a slide show of the top riskiest foods, that combined, sicken millions of Americans every year. FDA based its list on reported cases of foodborne illness from 1990 to 2006.

Third on the list is tuna.

Tuna. With 268 reported outbreaks of illness, FDA warned the big problem with tuna is a naturally occurring toxin called scombrotoxin, which can build up in its flesh if it is not kept cold. And, scombrotoxin cannot be cooked away. Symptoms of scombrotoxin poisoning include headache, nausea and palpitations.

In conclusion, the article recommends consumers follow the four C’s to avoid the big “C” (contamination): clean, cook, combat cross contamination and chill. Retailers need to also follow these so the store is not linked to any outbreaks. Store owners need to make sure their staff is diligent with cleanliness.

Additionally, retailers can help consumers stay safe by posting FDA’s food-handling recommendations close to where produce is sold. It could just save a life, or at least prevent an unpleasant evening.