The potential threat at the dining table: Taenia saginata

Taeniasis, a foodborne parasitic disease, is characterized by infection via Cysticercus bovis in raw or undercooked beef and is traditionally prevalent in regions and populations with dietary habits favoring raw or undercooked beef consumption. Here, we reported four cases of Taenia saginata infection identified in Hunan Province, a non-endemic region for T. saginata in 2023 and 2025. Morphological analysis of gravid proglottids was performed using an improved potassium permanganate staining protocol, and species identity was confirmed by PCR and sequencing. All patients had consumed raw or undercooked beef in mid-to-high-end restaurants, including healthcare workers. Notably, household clustering was observed. This report highlights the necessity of enhancing dietary safety education, reinforcing parasitic inspection of meat, and warning the public about the health risks of consuming raw or undercooked beef.