What type of contaminant will cooking protocols not break down in shellfish?
Answer
Heavy metals like mercury
Shellfish safety requires a two-pronged approach because different types of contaminants require different mitigation strategies. Cooking, which involves the application of heat, is highly effective at eliminating biological risks such as bacteria, viruses (like norovirus), and parasites, as these pathogens are killed upon reaching sufficient internal temperatures. However, heat has no effect on chemical contaminants, specifically naturally occurring shellfish toxins and heavy metals like mercury, which accumulate over time in the organism's tissues. Therefore, while cooking ensures biological safety, chemical safety remains dependent entirely on responsible sourcing from tested and cleared harvest waters.
Related Questions
What antioxidant gives shrimp its pink color and potency?What nutrient is found in an extreme concentration in clams, exceeding 3,000% DV per serving?Which compounds in scallops may offer protection against atherosclerosis?What type of contaminant will cooking protocols not break down in shellfish?How many calories per 3 oz serving does the text cite for blue crabs?What environmental advantage do farmed mussels offer when compared to beef consumption?Which mineral, necessary for red blood cell production, do oysters provide over 100% DV of?What is the visual cue indicating that scallops are fully cooked?Which preparation method can create harmful compounds like aldehydes and heterocyclic amines (HCAs)?Why should regular consumption of brown crab meat be limited for frequent fish eaters?