Potential Danger
Studies have shown that there are high levels of hypertension and gastric cancers among Koreans because of the salt that is used in making kimchi, as well as the chemical compound N-nitroso, found in kimchi, miso and pickled fish. Further studies are necessary to determine the direct relationship between these foods and the diseases, but consuming the foods twice a week instead of on a daily basis may be advisable.. (Katz, 2008).
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (2011), contaminated kimchi was found in oriental food wholesale markets in Atlanta, GA. The responsible organism was known to be Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and even fatal infections in people with a weak immune system, like young children, the elderly, AIDS patients, etc. It is important to check products before purchasing; if something smells or look questionable, it should be reported to the local health department immediately.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (2011), contaminated kimchi was found in oriental food wholesale markets in Atlanta, GA. The responsible organism was known to be Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and even fatal infections in people with a weak immune system, like young children, the elderly, AIDS patients, etc. It is important to check products before purchasing; if something smells or look questionable, it should be reported to the local health department immediately.