With the development of society, people are increasingly aware of the importance of choosing food for their health. We not only need to eat tasty and filling food, but also consume high-quality food. Similarly, fish is a healthy food, but not all types of fish are good. Some types of fish contain a lot of bacteria or have been processed and modified, and if accidentally eaten, they can have a negative impact on health.
Here are 5 types of fish that you should never buy, no matter how cheap they are, because they not only have no nutritional value, but also carry many dangerous germs.
Eel
Eel is a familiar and nutritious dish for everyone, often referred to as “water ginseng”. Eel meat regulates blood sugar levels, nourishes the brain, and is suitable for middle-aged people, the elderly, and diabetes patients. However, eels grow in warm and humid environments and are easily contaminated by suspended particles. In addition, eels also carry a parasite called Gnatostome, which can be transmitted through food and from mother to child. If the organs are not thoroughly cleaned, these parasites can invade the body and cause illness. So, when buying eels, remember to clean the organs thoroughly.
Big belly fish
If you see a fish that no longer moves and its belly is swollen, it is likely that the fish has been dead for a long time and the internal organs are damaged, creating gas and causing the fish’s belly to swell. This type of fish has spoiled meat, a strong foul odor, and is rich in bacteria. Eating it can be harmful to the body and digestive system.
Smooth-skinned fish (catfish)
As a species originating from tropical Africa, the common type of smooth-skinned fish on the market is the native catfish of our country. It has a moderate size and its meat has a melting texture in the mouth, making it very popular among many people. However, this type of fish has a strong adaptability to the environment, strong resistance to diseases, and belongs to the community that eats rotten bodies. They can survive in places like stinky drains or sewage pits, and there is almost no food that they won’t eat.
Fish with peeled scales, dull color
Fresh fish has shiny and firmly attached scales, but if a fish is close to death or has been dead for a long time, the scales will easily peel off. This type of fish is not only less fresh and tasty, but can also contain harmful bacteria. In addition, if the scales or skin of the fish turn opaque or have patches of discoloration, it indicates that the fish is beginning to rot.
Pond cleaner fish
Although pond cleaner fish themselves are not poisonous, they should not be eaten because, as the name suggests, they truly eat everything, including underwater waste. They not only eat fish eggs, but also eat the feces of other fish, so they are released into aquariums to filter water.
Harmful toxins consumed by pond cleaner fish will accumulate and remain in their bodies, causing their abdominal cavities to contain a large amount of bacteria and parasites. Moreover, the heavy metal content such as lead and mercury in these fish is much higher than in other types of fish. Regular consumption can cause headaches and damage the liver and kidneys. In addition, if the parasites are not properly handled, they can invade the human body and cause damage to the nervous system, and even lead to death. Pond cleaner fish have a strong survival ability and can survive for a long time even in places without water.
Above are types of fish that are prone to heavy metal contamination and parasite infection, so they should be consumed sparingly.