Avoid these 4 types of fish before Tet to protect yourself from heavy metal contamination.

During the annual Tet holiday, traditional dishes such as chicken, duck, and fish are essential. These dishes not only taste delicious but also make the feast more abundant and special. When buying fish for Tet, it is important to note some important tips. There are certain types of fish that not only have poor meat quality but also contain heavy metals. Not knowing how to choose the right fish can lead to wasting money and affecting health.

For example, in this article, I will introduce 4 types of fish that understanding them will help you avoid buying fish that contain heavy metals. Some fish sellers have warned about the quality of these fish and dare not eat them, but there are still consumers who are not aware of the risk.

First type: Black goldfish

Goldfish (stream fish) is often a popular choice among many people, especially because its meat is soft, boneless, and brings a special delicious flavor. Many knowledgeable people often choose to buy wild goldfish believing that this type has softer meat and a more delicious flavor. However, outside of the market, there is a fake black goldfish known as wild goldfish. In fact, this black goldfish lives in wild water streams, carrying a distinctive fishy smell, and its meat also has a gamey taste.

If you want to buy natural goldfish, choose the large, shiny yellow ones that do not have a dirt smell. This type of goldfish has the best quality and can be used to make dishes and soups without the need for MSG or seasoning. When cooked, it will bring a special delicious flavor.

Second type: Fish meat without elasticity when pressed

At some markets, after the fish dies, the sellers may lower the price to sell a large quantity of fish. Some people buy a large quantity to bring home and salt or deep fry. In fact, most freshly dead fish can still be bought, however, after a period of death, the fish meat starts to spoil and produce heavy metals. Pressing the fish meat if it does not immediately restore its elasticity is a bad sign, and this type of fish should be avoided. Instead, choose fresh fish with elastic meat when pressed.

Third type: Mud catfish

Mud catfish, although a relatively cheap type of fish, is often sold in markets with prices ranging from 3,000 to 40,000 VND per kilogram. However, it should not be bought because they live in muddy environments and often feed on mud substances, decaying animal carcasses, and waste.

The living environment quality of these fish is very poor, and this type of fish contains a lot of heavy metals. Mud catfish has a strong dirt smell, which makes many people stay away and not want to buy this type of fish.

Fourth type: Freshwater fish with a distinctive gamey smell

When buying freshwater fish, many people often check its odor. Freshwater fish without a distinctive smell will be the freshest fish and the meat will be tender when cooking. However, some types of freshwater fish have a strong distinctive gamey smell, usually originating from low-quality water areas.

According to Giaitri.thoibaovhnt