The snails of the genera Ezobora and Ezobai are collectively called “tsubu” or “bai,” with over 30 species available in the market.
The “salivary glands (commonly called ‘abura’)” of Ezobora species like Matsubu (Neptunea polycostata Scarlato,1952), Ezoboramodoki (Neptunea intersculpta (Sowerby Ⅲ,1899)), Kuriiroezobora (Neptunea cf. lamellosa Golikov,1962), Atsuezobora (Neptunea heros (Gray,1850)), Chijimiezobora (Neptunea constricta (Dall,1907)), and Aotsubu (Neptunea (Barbitonia) arthritica (Bernardi,1857)) contain a toxin called “tetramine.”
Tetramine poisoning occurs when Tsubu snails are consumed without removing the salivary glands. This toxin does not break down with heating, so proper removal of the salivary glands before cooking is essential, regardless of whether the snails are eaten raw or cooked.
Symptoms typically appear about 30 minutes after consumption and include visual disturbances such as double vision, dizziness, headache, and a sensation of seasickness. While there have been no fatalities to date, and recovery usually occurs within a few hours, symptoms can be severe in some individuals.