The real threat and the statistics
In fact, the fox tapeworm is a disease that has been spreading in Europe for several decades and can be dangerous not only for humans but also for numerous animals. Since the course of the disease can sometimes lead to severe disabilities or even death, the factors of infection and the abstract risk potential should also be discussed in principle. However, the reality is that very few people in Central Europe fall victim to this pathogen every year. This is not only due to the fact that there are dwindling numbers of foxes in the forests, but also to the deterrence of many adults and children from snacking on sweet berries in the forest.
also read
- The ripening time of blackberries in the garden
- The ideal location for blackberries in the garden
- Boil the blackberries down to keep them longer
Wild Blackberries and the Safety of Consumption
Today there are many children and adults who, because of the fear of the fox tapeworm, do not collect and eat any fruit in the wild. However, with their spicy and aromatic taste, wild blackberries can be used fresh or dried if the following safety rules are observed:
- only pick fruit more than 80 cm from the ground
- only collect fruit from areas that have been proven to be free of fox tapeworms
- wash the fruits thoroughly several times
In fact, washing the collected blackberries several times with clear water offers the best protection against infection with the fox tapeworm. This is how the pathogen is washed away and the tasty fruit can be safely consumed.
Usually no danger in your own garden
If you grow blackberries of wild or farmed blackberry species in your own garden, you can usually feel safe from the fox tapeworm. Unless you have your property in the immediate vicinity of the forest without a fence, contact with an infected fox is very unlikely. However, it doesn't hurt to wash the fruit with clean water before eating it fresh or processing it into juices and jams.
Tips & Tricks
When collecting wild blackberries, do not snack on fruits directly in the forest, despite the temptation. Protect yourself against diseases by first washing the fruits thoroughly at home with clear water.
