Every year in Japan people are hospitalised after eating pufferfish; sometimes the result is fatal. But despite apparent dangers, strict rules on serving the toxic delicacy in Tokyo are to be relaxed.

Aficionados say the tingle that the meat of the pufferfish leaves on your lips – caused by the potent neurotoxin it contains – is part of the appeal.

Diners at Shigekazu Suzuki’s restaurant, however, can be sure they are in no danger when they select their pufferfish from a tank near the kitchen.

Suzuki is one of an exclusive coterie of Tokyo chefs who have undergone special training that allows them to serve the potentially fatal fish.