Can You Eat Shrimp Tails? (Risks and Benefits)

Shrimp has different parts in the body, including the head, body & tail. If all parts of shrimp were edible, it raises the question of what to avoid in their cooking.

Most restaurant chefs take out the tails from the shrimp while cooking and use them for decoration & flavor purposes. But can you eat shrimp tails? Here is the answer according to the nutritionists:

Yes, you can eat the shrimp tails. But, if you are going to use them in your cooking, they need to be boiled first. Shrimp tails have a toxic substance that causes paralysis in humans. It would be best to eliminate the toxic substance before putting anything into our mouths. As long as you boil the tail meat first, this toxin should be removed. So yes, you can eat shrimp tails.

Shrimp tails contain lots of nutrition that can help build muscle mass. These tasty treats are high in protein content and include vitamins like A, D, E & K, calcium, zinc, iron, and magnesium.

And this article will let you know how to eat them with all the risks and benefits. Let’s give it a go!

Are Shrimp Tails Edible?

Shrimp tails are edible, but it’s preferred not to be eaten. Shrimp can contain about 80 milligrams per 100 grams of edible parts. Shrimp has been used for centuries as food both in Asia and Europe.

Shrimp shells are rich in calcium carbonate and other minerals that can enhance your health if you eat them regularly. They are also rich in protein, fat, cholesterol, sodium, iron, zinc, copper, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acid.

More importantly, they are a good source of chitin, a substance that helps build strong bones and teeth. In addition to being nutritious, shrimps are beautiful and edible too! You can find shrimp at Asian markets and even in many supermarkets.

They are stored for decoration & flavor purposes, not served as primary seafood to eat. It’s excellent if you want to eat it as it is eatable. Plus, shrimp tails contain protein and other vital nutrients that help you keep in shape. 

Another reason why most people don’t prefer to eat shrimp tails is because the tails are hard and require much chewing. 

LEARN MORE: Can You Cook Frozen Shrimp in the Microwave?

Risks and Benefits of Eating Shrimp Tails

So, now you know that you can eat shrimp tails. But, what will happen when you eat them. Let’s know the risks and benefits in detail.

Benefits of Shrimp Tails:

High Protein Value:  Shrimp tails are rich in protein and selenium, chorine, zinc, and vitamin B12, which makes it one of the good reasons to stay healthy.

Whether you choose to eat the tailor remove it, it will still be very nutritious and provide essential nutrients.

Helps to lose weight: If you want to lose, you can add shrimp tails to your meals as they contain high protein value and low calories.  Thanks to the Omega-3 fatty acid that provides glowing skin, a healthy heart, and better brain functioning when eating consistently. 

Protects from heart disease risks: With full packed nutrients available in it, it helps & protects from heart ailments.

Strong Immunity: Zinc properties in shrimp tails provide a healthy immune system.

Risks of Eating Shrimp Tails:

Allergy & Lower Cholesterol: Few components are available in the shrimp tails, such as chitin which can cause allergy and lower cholesterol.

Contain Parasites and Bacteria: Shrimp tails contain parasites & bacteria if not cooked thoroughly well. So, make sure to cook it well.

How to Eat Shrimp Tails 

The shrimp tail tastes like chicken skin but has much less fat. You can use them to make stock. To prepare:

• Remove the shell first, then cut off the head and legs. 
• Next, break down the tail into smaller pieces and place them into a large pot of boiling water. 
• Cook them until they turn bright pink. 
• Remove from heat and drain in a colander. 

Now you have fresh shrimp tails for use. This works great with any fish soup recipe!

Conclusion

So, now you know the answer that shrimp tails are healthy and edible to eat with some extra tips that surely will benefit you while cooking it. Shrimp tails are an excellent food that can help your body recover from strenuous exercise.

They are rich in protein and contain high amounts of iron and calcium, making them healthy addition to your diet if you’re looking to build muscle mass. 

Shrimp tail meat has many nutritional benefits. An additional tip is to buy the shrimp from a reputed buyer as it reduces the risk of getting contaminated shrimps.

Avoid those with the black spots. Before using it, wash it properly to remove all the dirt and germs, dry it further with a paper towel, and begin the cooking to bring the best out of it.