Is it safe to eat floating mussels?

In this brief guide, we will discuss the question, “is it safe to eat floating mussels?”. As well, we will discuss how can I know if the mussels are dead, what is the nutrient content of mussels, and other concerns about mussels.    

Is it safe to eat floating mussels?

Yes, it is safe to eat floating mussels, as live mussels can float when they trap an air bubble when they close their shells. However, if the mussels are dead, you need to discard them. 

How can I know if the mussels are dead?

According to Leaf Group, the living mussels close their shells when opened, if they do not close, they are dead. Mussels with broken shells or smashed are also dead. Do not eat dead mussels, as they can cause foodborne illness. 

How can I know if the mussels are spoiled?

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, spoiled food may have changed the appearance of the food in its color, fresh aspect, texture, odor, and taste. If you noted some of the signs of spoiled foods, throw them away to avoid foodborne illness.

What is foodborne illness?

Foodborne illness can occur when humans eat food contaminated with microorganisms, chemicals, or spoiled food. The contamination of food can happen in any part of the manufacturing food, also in shipping, commerce, and at home. 

What do I need to know when buying mussels?

To reduce the chance of foodborne illness or popularly known as “food poisoning” the Food and Drug Administration suggested following the list of tips below. 

  • Just choose mussels that are refrigerated or exhibited on a wide bed of fresh ice;
  • The mussels can never smell ammonia or sour;
  • The smell coming from the mussels needs to be mild and fresh;
  • The entire flesh of the mussels needs to be firm, and when pressed should spring back;
  • The mussels need to exhibit no discoloration, blackness, or dry edges.  

What do I need to know if I will buy frozen mussels?

When you are going to buy frozen mussels, you need to pay attention if the package is not damaged or kneaded. Take care of signs of crystals or frost ice, which indicates the mussels were defrosted and refrozen.

How can I defrost frozen mussels?

To defrost frozen mussels properly, you just need to keep them in the refrigerator, then they will defrost at a safe temperature. It is not recommended to defrost frozen mussels at room temperature.

How can I store mussels? 

If the mussels will be consumed within 2 days after being bought, you can keep them in a clean refrigerator (40°F or below). If you know that you are not using the mussels, it’s better to freeze them as soon as possible. To know more safety tips about it, click here.

What is the nutrient content of mussels? 

Mussels have high biological value and are a source of protein, low fat, low carbohydrates, omega-3 fatty acids, A vitamin, C vitamin, B12 vitamin, B9 vitamin (folate) iron, calcium, selenium, and zinc. Eating mussels regularly can bring many healthy nutrients to your body.

What are the health benefits of eating mussels? 

As you check, mussels contain a lot of protein, minerals, and vitamins, which can provide many health benefits to your body when eating them regularly. According to WebMD, below are listed some health benefits of eating mussels.

  • The great quality protein present in mussels is easily digested and can provide many benefits to your body, such as the development of muscles, improving the immune system, maintaining bone strength, and protection from injuries; 
  • The presence of iron helps to avoid anemia;
  • B12 present in mussels is required for the development of red blood cells;
  • The omega-3 fatty acids help to decrease blood pressure, maintain the blood vessels working correctly, and improve heart health.

Are there side effects of eating mussels?

Yes, there are some side effects of eating mussels, mainly if you have an intolerance for the protein of the mussels. According to WebMD, below are listed some side effects of eating mussels. 

  • If you eat mussels that are in the red tide you have a chance to develop poisoning paralysis because the mussels will be contaminated with toxins present in the red tide;
  • Mussels are related to mercury content that can be present in the water. 

What is a recipe for mussels?

As mussels are consumed worldwide, you can find many recipes on the internet to make mussels. If you click here, you will check a complete recipe for steamed mussels with white wine broth. 

Conclusion

In this brief guide, we have discussed the question, “is it safe to eat floating mussels?”. As well, we have discussed how can I know if the mussels are dead, what is the nutrient content of mussels, and other concerns about mussels.   

References

https://www.webmd.com/diet/mussels-good-for-you Accessed: 05/15/2022

https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2016/03/25/protecting-your-family-food-spoilage Accessed: 05/15/2022

https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/foodborne-germs.html Accessed: 05/15/2022

https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/selecting-and-serving-fresh-and-frozen-seafood-safely Accessed: 05/15/2022

https://www.leaf.tv/articles/how-to-tell-if-mussels-are-bad/ Accessed: 05/15/2022

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