Anisakid parasites in frozen fish fillets intended for human consumption

Introduction: Anisakiasis is a parasitic disease caused by members of the Anisakidae family and transmitted to humans by the consumption of raw fish or shellfish. It is currently considered an emerging disease of public health interest. Objective: To identify the presence of larvae of the Anisakidae family in samples of frozen raw fish fillets intended for human consumption in markets in Medellin and its metropolitan area in Antioquia (Colombia). Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out, in which the presence of larvae of the Anisakidae family was identified in frozen raw fish fillets from three representative markets in Medellin and its metropolitan area. A total of 384 ready for consumption fillets were analyzed (197 sawfish, 137 salmon, 37 tuna, and 13 hake), using the pressing and U.V. light method. The collected parasites were identified by taxonomic keys by which the genus was established, and conventional PCR and Sanger sequencing for the species definition. Results: Four larvae were found in four of the 384 fillets [1.04% (4/384); 95%Cl: 1.04 +/- 1.01%]. The species of fish in which the larvae were found was sawfish (Scomberomorus spp.) and the genus and species of the larvae was established as Anisakis pegreffii. Conclusions: According to the study carried out, the presence of anisakid parasites in frozen raw fish fillets in the influence area is evident.