1. Fish Gallbladder –

Contains a high concentration of digestive enzymes and toxins. If it ruptures during preparation or cooking, it can release harmful substances that may cause poisoning or severe digestive issues. Some cultures even warn against eating the gallbladder due to its toxicity.

2. Fish Intestines –

This is where waste and bacteria accumulate. If not thoroughly cleaned, the intestines can harbor harmful pathogens and parasites, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. Consuming fish intestines from polluted waters can also introduce toxins into your body.

3. Fish Gills –

The gills act as a filter for water, so they tend to accumulate pollutants like heavy metals, chemicals, and toxins from their environment. Eating gills, especially from fish caught in contaminated waters, can expose you to these harmful substances.

4. Skin of Farmed Fish –

Farmed fish skin can contain residues of antibiotics, pesticides, and heavy metals used in aquaculture to prevent disease and promote growth. These substances may remain on or within the skin, posing health risks if consumed regularly.

5. Fish Internal Organs (Liver, Pancreas, etc.) –

Internal organs are prone to accumulating heavy metals such as mercury and cadmium, especially in fish living in polluted waters. The liver and pancreas can also contain toxins and harmful substances that the fish filters from its environment, making them risky to eat frequently.

Additional Points:

• Parasite risk: Some of these organs, particularly intestines and gills, can harbor parasites harmful to humans if not cooked properly.

• Environmental factors: The degree of contamination depends heavily on the pollution level of the fish’s habitat.

• Proper cleaning: Removing these parts carefully and washing fish thoroughly reduces health risks.

• Cooking methods: High-heat cooking can help neutralize some toxins but not all, so avoiding these parts is safer.

• Health impacts: Long-term consumption of toxins from these parts can affect liver, kidney, and nervous system health.