BACOLOD CITY – Authorities advised people in La Castellana and Hinigaran in Negros Occidental to temporarily avoid eating “aloy” or “tulingan” after seven people in the two municipalities recently suffered allergies after consuming the popular and affordable fish.
Their warning also came after more than 50 people in Cadiz City, Negros Occidental suffered allergies from consuming tulingan.
Health authorities in Hinigaran have implemented a temporary ban on the sale and consumption of tulingan as precaution. Investigation is ongoing to ensure public safety.
Health officials suspect these cases are linked to scombroid fish poisoning, a food-borne illness caused by high levels of histamine in improperly stored fish.
According to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-Negros Island Region (BFAR-NIR), the condition occurs when fish like tulingan are not properly chilled from the time they are caught until they reach the market.
Exposure to heat can cause the fish to produce histamine, which cannot be removed even through cooking.
The agency is investigating the incident and monitoring local markets in the province to ensure food safety.
The public was advised to buy only fresh fish, avoid those with unusual smell or taste, and ensure proper handling and storage to prevent food-borne illness.