Abstract

Anisakis (mainly Anisakis spp.) is a global public health and socio-economic concern. The infective third stage larva (L3) of these nematodes, which may be present in the muscle of fish and squid, is the etiological agent of an underestimated, emerging fish-borne zoonotic disease called anisakiasis (or anisakidosis). With the globalization of the seafood industry and the diversification of eating habits, anisakiasis is distributed worldwide, which seriously threatens human health. However, the risk of humans acquiring anisakiasis in developed countries with the habit of raw fish consumption appears to be underestimated. Current knowledge of Anisakis as a food-borne parasite with special focus on Anisakis larvae infection in marine fish, life cycle, geographical distribution, epidemiology, allergenic protein residue of A. simplex, are critically reviewed. Research on residues from allergenic proteins of Anisakis remained in processed fish products and their health risks to susceptible consumers are discussed for prevention and control of this parasite.

Anisakis is ubiquitous in the world’s oceans, but there are differences in the number and species of this nematode with geographical location. Conventional thermal processing like freezing, heating, smoke curing and non-thermal processing such as salting and pressure have shown potential effects on elimination or reduction of food allergenic proteins, however, similar effects on residual Anisakis allergenicity are unknown. Potential harm or risk of these parasitic allergenic proteins to consumers is scarce in the published literature. Further research on assessment and technical control of Anisakis allergenic proteins in fish-borne food is proposed for fish food safety in aquatic industry.

Keywords: Anisakis; Allergens; Anisakiasis; Prevalence of sensitization

Abbreviations: WHO: The World Health Organization; EFSA: The European Food Safety Authority; ES: Excretory-Secretory; IgE: Immunoglobulin E; FDA: The United States Food and Drug Administration; IUIS: International Union of Immunological Societies; GAA: gastro-allergic anisakiasis; ELISA: Enzyme- Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay