Question:

____ is associated with scombroid food poisoning}

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Scombroid poisoning is often called "Histamine Poisoning." Because histamine is heat-stable, cooking the fish will not make it safe once the toxin has formed. Cold chain management is the only prevention.
  • Clostridium
  • Histamine
  • Listeria
  • Dopamine
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question identifies the chemical agent responsible for "Scombroid poisoning," a common type of foodborne illness caused by the consumption of improperly handled fish.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:


Mechanism: Scombroid poisoning occurs in fish families like Scombridae (Tuna, Mackerel) and some others (Mahi-mahi, Sardines) that naturally contain high levels of the amino acid Histidine.

Bacterial Action: If these fish are kept at warm temperatures after being caught, bacteria (like Morganella morganii) produce the enzyme histidine decarboxylase. This enzyme converts histidine into Histamine.

Symptoms: Ingesting high levels of histamine causes an allergic-like reaction because histamine is a primary mediator of inflammation in humans. Symptoms include facial flushing, sweating, burning mouth, headache, and hives.

Other Options: Clostridium (A) causes botulism. Listeria (C) causes listeriosis. Dopamine (D) is a neurotransmitter but not the toxin in fish poisoning.

Step 3: Final Answer:

Histamine is the chemical associated with scombroid food poisoning.
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