On Tue, 26 Apr 2011 12:07:33 -0500, "Storrmmee"
wrote:
I've found lots of information that disagrees with what you've said.
I've read in many places that rattlesnake meat has the venom in the
meat itself and can cause a reaction if it enters the bloodstream via
a sore in the mouth, a decayed tooth or a tear in the digestive tract.
I have no idea if this information is true or not, but I certainly
won't be trying it.
Quotes:
Rattlesnake meat ? whether consumed as a delicacy or as a novelty ?
should never be eaten raw, even when offered dried. Raw rattlesnake
meat carries rare, yet potentially deadly parasites and has been
documented to infect humans with salmonella bacteria so thorough
cooking is imperative.
Pentastomiasis is also known as tongue worm infestation. The parasites
live in the respiratory tract of snakes and other reptiles.
Rattlesnake meat in South America has been linked several times with
severe strains of salmonella, which grows in the snake's gut. This
bacteria is neutralized by proper handling and by cooking.
Snakes, like other animals, may also contain parasites and other
infections that can be transmitted to humans, which can also be
neutralized by proper handling, freezing, and thorough cooking.
Snake venom must enter the blood stream to pose any danger to people,
so there are no concerns about poisoning from eating most snakes.
Snake meat is relatively low in fat and calories, high in protein and
some consider it a rising star in the food industry. However, like any
type of meat, it should be prepared and cooked carefully to ensure it
does not result in infection or food poisoning.