Japan: Fugu

Until recently, the Japanese puffer fish presented diners with a dilemma. While its delicate flavor is prized, the fish’s internal organs contain tetrodotoxin, a toxin far deadlier than cyanide. Over a 24-hour period, the toxin first paralyzes a victim, and then kills them. Recently, science has come to the aid of the fugu-lovers. Tetrodotoxin results from the puffer fish’s diet. Japanese fish farmers have regulated its diet, creating nonpoisonous fugu. Even its liver—where the poison is concentrated—is now served in parts of Japan.