Which toxin is a concern when consuming certain marine organisms?

Which toxin is a concern when consuming certain marine organisms?

• A. Histamine
• B. Chlorine
• C. Ammonia
• D. Carbon monoxide

Answer: (A)

Histamine is a toxin that is a significant concern when consuming certain marine organisms, particularly fish like tuna, mackerel, and bonito. This toxin is associated with scombroid poisoning, which occurs when fish are not stored or handled correctly after being caught. As these fish start to decay, bacteria on their flesh convert histidine, an amino acid present in the fish, into histamine. When ingested, elevated levels of histamine can cause allergic reactions in humans, resulting in symptoms such as flushing, headache, and gastrointestinal distress. The other options listed do not pose the same risk in the context of marine organisms. Chlorine is typically a disinfectant and not a toxin found in seafood. Ammonia can be produced in foods as a byproduct of decomposition but is not a primary concern associated with marine life consumption. Carbon monoxide is often associated with certain processes like smoking but is not inherently a toxin derived from marine animals. Thus, histamine remains the primary concern regarding toxins produced in certain seafood, particularly when proper handling and storage practices are not followed.

Histamine is a toxin that is a significant concern when consuming certain marine organisms, particularly fish like tuna, mackerel, and bonito. This toxin is associated with scombroid poisoning, which occurs when fish are not stored or handled correctly after being caught. As these fish start to decay, bacteria on their flesh convert histidine, an amino acid present in the fish, into histamine. When ingested, elevated levels of histamine can cause allergic reactions in humans, resulting in symptoms such as flushing, headache, and gastrointestinal distress.

The other options listed do not pose the same risk in the context of marine organisms. Chlorine is typically a disinfectant and not a toxin found in seafood. Ammonia can be produced in foods as a byproduct of decomposition but is not a primary concern associated with marine life consumption. Carbon monoxide is often associated with certain processes like smoking but is not inherently a toxin derived from marine animals. Thus, histamine remains the primary concern regarding toxins produced in certain seafood, particularly when proper handling and storage practices are not followed.