Are Undercooked Shrimp Safe? Risks and Health Concerns

Concerns about Undercooked Food

Several years ago, my family became fascinated with a cooking method they saw on a culinary show, which has led to multiple arguments due to the occasional fishy taste in the dishes.
I am particularly concerned about shrimp, such as shrimp omelets.
Although the shrimp appear red on the outside, some parts are still soft and not fully cooked.
Additionally, the shrimp from Costco (sourced from Southeast Asia) also have a fishy taste when boiled.
My family is accustomed to bringing the water to a boil and then letting it sit, which results in the shrimp being about 60-70% cooked.
If I consume this type of shrimp, is there a risk of contracting lung flukes or liver flukes? I used to think shrimp didn't carry parasites.
Would it be difficult to detect this at the hospital, or can it be identified through a blood test?

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/11

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, it is not always possible to determine the presence of parasites solely based on appearance.
Currently, medical practice primarily focuses on patients with gastrointestinal symptoms, who can have their stool tested for parasite eggs.
As for blood tests, theoretically, eosinophil levels may increase, but this is not definitive.
In summary, it mainly depends on whether you have symptoms.
If you do have gastrointestinal symptoms, you can visit a gastroenterology clinic for further evaluation.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2021/05/11

More Info

When it comes to the safety of consuming undercooked shrimp, there are several important factors to consider, particularly regarding the risks of foodborne illnesses and parasitic infections. Shrimp, like other seafood, can harbor various pathogens and parasites that pose health risks if not cooked properly.

Risks Associated with Undercooked Shrimp
1. Bacterial Infections: Shrimp can be contaminated with bacteria such as Vibrio, which is commonly found in warm seawater. Consuming undercooked or raw shrimp can lead to infections that may cause symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. These infections can be particularly severe in individuals with weakened immune systems.

2. Parasitic Infections: While shrimp are not typically associated with parasites like some other seafood (e.g., fish), there are still risks. For example, shrimp can carry parasites such as *Penaeus monodon* (black tiger shrimp) which can harbor *Haplosporidium* and other parasites. However, the risk of contracting infections like lung flukes (*Paragonimus*) or liver flukes (*Fasciola hepatica*) from shrimp is relatively low compared to other seafood.

3. Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may have allergies to shellfish, including shrimp. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can include hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis.

Cooking Recommendations
To minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses, it is crucial to cook shrimp thoroughly. The USDA recommends cooking shrimp to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Proper cooking will ensure that harmful bacteria and parasites are killed. When shrimp are cooked, they should turn opaque and firm, with no translucent areas remaining.

Identifying Safe Shrimp
When purchasing shrimp, look for those that are fresh and have a mild scent. If shrimp have a strong fishy odor, they may not be fresh. Additionally, ensure that shrimp are stored at the correct temperature and are kept on ice if not cooked immediately.

Testing for Infections
If you are concerned about potential infections from consuming undercooked shrimp, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Testing for bacterial infections typically involves stool tests, while parasitic infections may require specific blood tests or stool examinations. If you experience symptoms such as gastrointestinal distress, fever, or unusual fatigue after consuming shrimp, seek medical attention promptly.

Conclusion
In summary, while undercooked shrimp can pose health risks due to bacterial and, to a lesser extent, parasitic infections, the likelihood of contracting serious illnesses can be significantly reduced by ensuring that shrimp are cooked thoroughly. If you have concerns about your health or specific symptoms following the consumption of shrimp, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate testing and guidance. Always prioritize food safety practices to enjoy shrimp and other seafood without undue risk.

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