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“How to Spot the Difference Between Real and Fake Dried Shrimp”

Dried shrimp is considered a luxury item with a price tag of almost VND 660,000 per kilogram. However, many unscrupulous traders have been using cheap chemicals to treat the shrimp and rip off unsuspecting consumers. To ensure you don't fall prey to these deceptive practices, we will guide you on how to distinguish between the authentic and chemically-treated dried shrimp.

Administrator

13 July, 2024

1. How to Spot the Difference Between Real and Fake Dried Shrimp

Criteria	Real Dried Shrimp	Fake Dried Shrimp
Color	Natural pinkish-red.	Silver or white.
Smell	Fragrant, with a distinct aroma that can be smelled from a distance.	Besides the shrimp smell, you may also detect a rubbery, plasticky, or otherwise strange odor.
Crushing Test	When crushed in a mortar, the body of the shrimp will flatten, and the meat will break into pieces.	The shape remains unchanged, and it may even bounce and pop out.
Taste Test	Delicious and sweet, with a pleasant shrimp aroma.	Chewy and unpleasant-tasting.
Soaking Test	If the shrimp expands when soaked in a bowl of water, it’s real.	Fake shrimp will remain unchanged.
Pan-Frying Test	It will cook and emit a pleasant aroma. It will emit a burnt rubber or plastic smell.
Bending Test	The body is flexible but can be separated by hand.	Stiffer and harder to bend than natural shrimp.

2. How to Store Dried Shrimp to Maintain Their Flavor and Aroma

Once you’ve purchased dried shrimp, proper storage is key to preserving their taste and fragrance.

– If you plan on using them regularly, divide them into small portions, wrap them in two to three layers of plastic, and store them in the refrigerator for daily use. For longer-term storage, it’s best to keep them in the freezer.

– Place the shrimp in a sealed glass container and store them in the refrigerator.

– If you don’t have a refrigerator, wrap the shrimp in multiple layers of plastic or newspaper. Store them in a cool, dry place, and expose them to sunlight once a week before re-wrapping and storing them again until they’re all consumed.

For more information:

The criteria outlined above will help you discern between real and fake shrimp. Stay tuned to our website for more insightful content like this, and become a smarter consumer!

Reference: kienthuc.net.vn

Frequently asked questions

There are a few key indicators to look out for when trying to discern between real and fake dried shrimp. Firstly, the appearance can give you some clues; real dried shrimp will have a more varied and natural coloring, whereas fake shrimp often have a more uniform and unnatural color. The texture is another telling factor; real dried shrimp will have a firmer texture and will not be as brittle or fragile as fake shrimp. Additionally, the smell and taste can be indicators; real dried shrimp will have a more pronounced shrimp flavor and a slightly fishy smell, while fake shrimp may have a more neutral or artificial odor.

Fake dried shrimp often have a more uniform shape and size, lacking the natural variation seen in real shrimp. The coloring, as mentioned, is often unnatural and may appear too bright or vibrant. Additionally, fake shrimp often have a glossy or shiny appearance, which is a result of the coating used to mimic the look of real shrimp. They may also be overly brittle, producing a loud snapping sound when broken, and may have an overly salty or artificial taste.

Consuming fake dried shrimp may pose potential health risks. These products are often made with cheaper, low-quality ingredients and may contain harmful chemicals or additives. Some common issues include the use of artificial colors and flavors, excessive amounts of salt or preservatives, and even the presence of harmful bacteria or contaminants. As such, it is important to be vigilant and choose reputable sources for your dried shrimp to minimize any potential health hazards.

To ensure you’re purchasing authentic dried shrimp, it’s important to buy from reputable sources. Look for trusted brands or local suppliers who have a good reputation for selling quality products. Check the packaging for detailed information on the source and production of the shrimp, and be wary of products with vague or missing information. It’s also beneficial to inspect the shrimp closely, taking note of the appearance, texture, and smell to ensure they align with the characteristics of real dried shrimp.

Real dried shrimp offer a more natural and nutritious option. They are a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and various vitamins and minerals. Real dried shrimp also tend to have a more complex and flavorful taste, enhancing the dishes they are used in. Additionally, by choosing real dried shrimp, you support sustainable and ethical fishing practices, ensuring the long-term viability of the industry and the environment.