One dead, two hospitalized after eating self-cooked toads in Hainan

One villager in southern China's Hainan province has died and two others remain hospitalized after consuming self-cooked toads, Jimu News reported on Sunday.

The three villagers, from Wencheng township in Wenchang, caught and prepared the toads themselves for a meal at a local restaurant in the evening of Oct 13th, according to Jimu News. Shortly after dining, they all experienced symptoms of food poisoning, including abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Despite receiving medical treatment, one person died, while the other two are still under care.

Local authorities said toads are protected under China's "Three-Have" wildlife classification, which covers animals of ecological, scientific, or social value. Hunting or capturing such species without authorization is illegal. While it is rare to hear of toads being consumed, authorities described this incident as isolated.

Toads are known to have medicinal uses, but experts warn their skin contains poisonous glands that release toxins. Direct consumption can cause serious harm to the heart, digestive system, and central nervous system, according to medical experts from Wenchang People's Hospital.

This is not the first such case. In 2018, five people were poisoned after eating toads at a family dinner in Guangdong province, resulting in one death, the Guangdong Provincial Administration for Food and Drug Control said.