Why is it necessary to de-vein prawns? Are the veins poisonous?!
Why is it necessary to de-vein prawns? Are the veins poisonous?
Answers:
The belief that the vein contains prawn's waste is a myth. The vein actually is just the vein, like how us, human has veins. The vein is not poisonous but it is not flattering for food preparation.
De-veining is removal of the waste (poop) on a prawn.
As far as I know, no it is not poisonous. If eaten raw maybe, but most is prepared cooked and high temperatures kill bacteria.
Gosh, I would be dead or severely sick now if that was true.
It is just not appealing if you see it there.
not that I know of they are not poisonous, it just looks nicer to have a prawn without the ugly color of the vein, plus it diminishes the flavor of a succulent shrimp. It also gives the prawn a nice shape.
It is not necessary to de-vein prawns. I grew up in a diet of seafood and had eaten many large prawns without de-veining them and I am still alive. I believe its people perception that its dirty and also to improve the presentation of the dish especially in restaurants. I have never heard of anyone being poisoned and/or dying from eating whole prawns.
Stinky Pete says the poo is the best part, but then again he's gross!