Latin American Food Dangers!

Latin America - as we have discussed in class - prides itself on its flavorful, diverse and unique cuisine, but an article in Time magazine also points out ten of some potentially dangerous [although completely avoidable] foods in Latin America and throughout the world.

Ranking as #3, was Jamaica's fruit Ackee - before reading this article I had never seen nor heard of this fruit - which is part of the national dish made with codfish. [If you haven't either, I'd suggest looking it up... they're very pretty.] It is originally from West Africa, but was transported to Jamaica in the 18th century [exchange!] and can lead to vomiting, coma, and even death if eaten before it has ripened, caused by a toxin called hypoglycin. Even when the fruit turns red, the seeds are always poisonous.

Topping the list was hot dogs, but cassava and coffee - both with Latin America connections - were also included.

To read the entire article: http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages/completelist/0,29569,1967235,00.html