How many people have died of eating puffer fish?

The consumption of puffer fish, or fugu, can be deadly due to the presence of tetrodotoxin, a potent neurotoxin. It is estimated that several dozen people die each year from eating improperly prepared fugu, with reports varying by region. Overall, it is difficult to provide an exact number of deaths, but the risk remains significant due to the fish's toxic nature. Safe preparation is crucial, and only licensed chefs should handle it.