Fugu, known in the West as Japanese Puffer or Blowfish, is one of several types of fish species from that family that are eaten as sushi - raw fish. The puffer has a very dea
…dly toxin which is contained in the liver and if not properly handled and prepared can lead to intense suffering and eventually death. There is no known antidote for the toxin. The Japanese highly regulate the fishing, import, export of the fish species itself; and the licensing of sushi chefs, who have to endure rigorous school training and several exams before being allowed to serve it to the public. Although dangerous, many hardcore traditionalists leave an extremely tiny portion of the poison on the flesh as the numbing sensation in the lips, tongue and mouth is considered part of the mystique of having "survived" eating Fugu. The flesh itself is considered firm white, but otherwise bland and tasteless as many Fugu dishes are accompanied by shoyu (soy sauce), green onions and/or the zest of a citrus fruit for flavor. (MORE) 
