Uncle DaveO, we are both right concering the name (trichiniasis and trichinosis are synonyms, and so is trichinellosis). I am only using the form that appears to be most prevalent around here - it certainly is so "back home" where I first learned it. Reference Trichiniasis fact sheet.

As for my suggested backround to pork avoidance by muslims/jews being only a theory and not proven - of course you are correct. However, I would not look to the Islamic/Jewish religions for a confirmation of this, just as I would not look to my Orthodox Christian parish priest for a confirmation of the Darwinian theory of evolution. Sure, religion "purists" are bound to get upset by such theories, one would expect them to, as they go counter to deep-seated beliefs.

Rapaire, I understand and applaud your logical approach to eating long pig, but please remind me not to go flying over remote areas with you...;-)