Most polar bears carry trichinella
Last updated Thursday, November 30, 2023
Public Health Advisory
Most polar bears carry trichinella
The Department of Health is reminding Nunavummiut that many polar bears carry a tiny round worm called trichinella, which can make humans sick. Freezing or fermenting meat will not kill trichinella, it can only be killed by cooking.
Polar bear meat is a nutritious food! Before eating polar bear, it should be cooked until there is no pink or red in the meat.
A factsheet on trichinosis can be found on the Department of Health’s website at: https://www.gov.nu.ca/sites/default/files/country_food_fact_sheets_trichinosis_gn_en.pdf
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Media Contact:
Ron Wassink
Communications Specialist
Department of Health
867-975-5710
@email