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Is It Safe to Eat Fish That Smells Fishy? How to Check Freshness Before Eating

Learn how to identify fresh fish and why a strong fishy smell means you should avoid eating it to stay safe from foodborne illnesses.

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Video transcript

If fish smells overly fishy, it may be a sign that it is not fresh. Fresh fish should have a mild scent. Check the eyes and texture; the eyes should be clear, and the skin firm. When in doubt, it is safer to avoid consuming it to prevent any risk of foodborne illness.

Questions and answers

  1. Why does fresh fish not smell fishy?

    Fresh fish has a mild scent because spoilage bacteria and enzymes that cause a strong fishy odor have not yet developed.

  2. What are other signs that fish is not fresh?

    Aside from a strong fishy smell, non-fresh fish often has cloudy eyes, soft or slimy skin, and a mushy texture.

  3. Can eating fish that smells fishy cause illness?

    Yes, eating fish that smells overly fishy may increase the risk of foodborne illnesses due to bacterial spoilage.

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For more tips on selecting fresh seafood and safe cooking practices, check out our related videos on how to store fish properly and signs of spoiled seafood before cooking.