Bassetti Calls Raw Seafood Trend 'Demented' as Puglia Defends Tradition

Infectious disease specialist Matteo Bassetti has sparked controversy by labeling the popular practice of eating raw seafood in Puglia a 'demented fad' and a form of 'food exhibitionism'. His comments, made in a viral video, targeted the numerous social media posts showing people consuming freshly caught mollusks and fish without proper freezing. Bassetti warned of health risks including Anisakis, a parasitic worm that can cause severe intestinal issues and allergies, as well as hepatitis A and E. coli. The tradition is deeply rooted in Bari, where fishermen often offer tourists raw octopus beaten on rocks and seasoned with lemon. Restaurants serve mixed raw seafood platters, sometimes called 'Barese sushi', with safer preparation due to thermal shocking. Many Puglians, including some influencers, have responded by posting videos of themselves eating raw seafood, claiming immunity developed from childhood consumption. One 82-year-old man from Bari stated he has antibodies, but Bassetti clarified that only those who have had hepatitis A develop antibodies, recommending vaccination for raw seafood consumers. The debate highlights the tension between cultural heritage and public health concerns.