What Salmon Can I Eat Raw?
A new CDC study about salmon parasites may be especially upsetting for sushi, sashimi, and ceviche fans. But the good news is that a few simple rules can keep you safe from food poisoning.
For starters, you should always purchase farm-raised salmon that’s been flash-frozen at -35 degrees F. This process kills most of the parasites and bacteria. You should also avoid raw salmon if you’re pregnant or have a compromised immune system.
It’s safe
Salmon is safe to eat raw, provided you store it and prepare it correctly. However, like any raw animal protein, it can contain parasites and bacteria that could cause food poisoning. You can minimize this risk by purchasing salmon labeled “sushi-grade” or “sashimi-grade.” These fish have undergone special handling and processing to ensure the salmon is safe for raw consumption.
Additionally, it’s important to choose fresh, high-quality salmon. Look for salmon that’s refrigerated or on a bed of thick, fresh ice. It should also have a natural, mild fishy smell. Avoid salmon with dark spots or mold.
You should also be careful not to overcook the salmon, as this can increase the risk of foodborne illness. In general, you should cook all meat and fish to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. This will kill most of the dangerous microorganisms that can make you sick. In addition, you should avoid raw fish if you’re pregnant, have a weak immune system or are ill with liver disease.
It’s not safe
A new study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a little upsetting for sushi, sashimi and ceviche lovers. It indicates that undercooked salmon is a source of potentially harmful parasites, including the intestinally invasive Japanese broad tapeworm (Diphyllobothrium nihonkaiense).
These parasites are not typically found in fully cooked fish since cooking to an internal temperature of 145 degrees F kills them. However, many grocery stores and restaurants sell raw salmon, including sashimi and the Nordic appetizer called gravlax, which can be infected with bacteria, parasites and other types of pathogens like Salmonella, shigella and E. coli.
In addition, eating raw salmon can be dangerous for certain groups of people who are at a higher risk for serious foodborne illness, including pregnant women, children and elderly individuals, as well as anyone with a compromised immune system such as those suffering from cancer, liver disease, HIV/AIDS, or having an organ transplant. Lastly, cross-contamination from improperly handled or stored salmon is another factor that increases the risk of infection.
It’s not good for you
Salmon are a popular addition to many dishes, but raw salmon may not be the healthiest choice for all people. Like any other animal protein, salmon can be a breeding ground for bacteria and parasites that could cause serious, life-threatening foodborne illness. Salmon that is wild-caught has a higher risk of infection because they have to hunt and kill their own prey in the wild, while farmed salmon lives on a diet of artificial fish pellets.
If you’re planning to eat raw salmon, it’s best to stick to grocery stores and fish markets that sell sushi-grade salmon. These salmon have been flash-frozen to -31°F, which kills any parasites that might be on the fish.
When choosing salmon for your sushi, look for the following qualities:
It’s good for you
Salmon is a popular seafood choice, whether it’s eaten raw in sushi or as sashimi. But just like any other animal protein, it has the potential to contain parasites and unhealthy bacteria, including Salmonella, shigella, E coli, and norovirus. Additionally, raw fish can also contain trace amounts of persistent organic pollutants (POPs), such as pesticides and manufacturing chemicals.
To reduce your risk, opt for sushi-grade salmon that has been frozen beforehand. Also, cook your salmon thoroughly to 145 degrees F. Additionally, be sure to wash your hands, sanitize cutting boards, and utensils, and avoid cross-contamination when preparing raw salmon.
Nutrition and dietary experts recommend getting your proteins from a variety of sources. While a 3-ounce serving of cooked salmon contains 20 grams of protein, you can easily get enough from other foods like legumes and nuts. Plus, if you’re following a plant-based diet, you can get the necessary amount of protein from nutritional yeast and fortified soy milk.