The Chewy, Gum-Like Mass in a Lobster’s Head: Fact or Fiction?

Recently, social media has been abuzz with a peculiar find: a strange, white, gum-like substance discovered within the heads of lobsters. This unusual discovery has sparked curiosity and concerns about potential health implications. So, what is this mysterious substance, and is it something we should be worried about?

By
Administrator
-
0
45

Lobster is a rather popular seafood delicacy, widely consumed and loved by many. However, there have been some amusing incidents surrounding this luxurious dish.

A young woman, Nga Vu, recently shared on Facebook her amusing discovery of strange, white, rubber-like chunks in the head of a lobster she was about to eat. Her post garnered almost 10,000 likes, over 250 shares, and thousands of comments, with many people intrigued and amused by her find.

Source: Facebook Nga Vu

So, what are these white chunks, and are they a result of chemical injections?

## Unveiling the Mystery: The White Chunks are Lobster Roe

These white chunks are, in fact, lobster roe or coral, which is the term fishermen use to refer to lobster caviar. Both male and female lobsters have this roe, and during the breeding season, it is common to find a white chunk in the head of a female lobster and two such chunks in the head of a male lobster, each about 3cm long. This part is rubbery and tasteless, and it bears an uncanny resemblance to chewing gum.

## Why Do Female Lobsters Have Roe, Too?

The reason lies in the reproductive process of lobsters. When a female lobster molts, the male lobster injects his sperm into her chest cavity. Interestingly, this sperm can be stored for up to two years, awaiting fertilization.

Mr. Nguyen Van Manh, an expert from Vung Tau City’s Economic Department, confirms: “The so-called ‘chewing gum’ inside lobsters is actually the roe of male lobsters. The roe is located on both sides of the male lobster’s chest cavity. The male releases his roe to the female when they are mature, usually over a year old. Some lobsters may not have this ‘chewing gum’ because they have already released their roe. Only those with unused roe will have this substance in their chest cavity.”

Mr. Nguyen Thanh Duy, owner of Phan Gia Seafood in Go Vap, Ho Chi Minh City, shared a similar experience. Many of his customers also found these white chunks in their lobsters and complained, thinking they were unnatural additives.

“They thought I was injecting some foreign substance into the lobsters to make a profit,” said Mr. Duy. “They came in a group of 15 people, all upset and angry. But after I explained and showed them the evidence, they apologized and left. Injecting anything into lobsters would kill them. And even if it were rubber, the rubber would cost more than the lobsters themselves!” Mr. Duy asserted.

So, there you have it—the mystery of the rubbery chunks in lobsters solved! We hope this article has provided you with some interesting insights into this delicious seafood delicacy.

Frequently asked questions

The mass is the lobster’s brain, and it is surrounded by a hard, protective shell called the carapace.

Yes, it is safe to eat. While it may not be appetizing to some, the brain is considered a delicacy in some cultures and is said to have a creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor.

Almost all parts of a lobster are edible, including the tail, claws, knuckles, legs, and even the tomalley (liver). However, it is important to avoid consuming the lobster’s veins, which can be toxic.

There is a common misconception that the brain is not considered part of the lobster’s meat due to its soft and gelatinous texture, which is vastly different from the firm and juicy texture of the lobster’s tail and claw meat.

To remove the brain, you can use a sharp knife to carefully cut along the carapace and lift it out. It is often attached to the lobster’s digestive tract, so it may require some gentle pulling to detach it completely.
You may also like

Mastering Your Kitchen Skills: Tips for Peeling Shrimp with a Fork

Want to quickly and easily peel those pesky shrimp shells? Try these simple and effective tricks!

Is Lobster Good for You and How Should It Be Eaten for Optimal Health Benefits?

Lobster is a delicacy and a luxurious treat, but is it healthy? And how should it be prepared to maximize its nutritional benefits? Discover the answers and explore the world of this exquisite seafood in the article below.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR