What is the reliable method to eliminate the parasite danger in mollusks intended for consumption?
Answer
Cooking to an internal temperature that kills the parasite
The transmission risk from raw or undercooked terrestrial mollusks like snails or slugs is directly tied to the presence of viable parasitic larvae, specifically *A. cantonensis*. While surface washing can reduce general contamination, it does not penetrate the tissues to destroy larvae that may be internal. The only reliable method guaranteed to eliminate the parasite and mitigate the specific danger associated with ingesting the living organism is the application of heat. Proper cooking, ensuring the mollusk reaches a sufficient internal temperature, effectively kills the parasite, thereby rendering the food safe from this particular infection vector.
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