Where Should You Not Eat in a Lobster?

May 26, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yu Yongchao

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, it is not recommended to eat the internal parts of the crayfish head, the intestinal tract (虾线), the shell, the roe (虾黄), or the gills. Individuals who are allergic to seafood should strictly avoid consuming crayfish to prevent allergic reactions such as rashes, itching, and difficulty breathing. It is also recommended to maintain a balanced diet and control portion sizes to avoid excessive consumption of crayfish, which can help maintain overall health.

Generally, it is not recommended to eat certain parts of a crawfish, including the head, digestive tract, shell, "crawfish fat" (yellow substance), and gills. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Crawfish Head

The head of a crawfish contains internal organs and digestive glands, which may accumulate heavy metals, bacteria, and parasites. Although the cooking process can kill most bacteria, heavy metals and parasites may still remain.

2. Digestive Tract ("Sand Vein")

The digestive tract of a crawfish, often appearing as a black or dark-colored line located beneath the back, may contain undigested food residues and other impurities. It should be removed before consumption.

3. Shell

The outer shell of a crawfish is primarily composed of chitin, which cannot be digested by the human body. Accidental ingestion could potentially scratch the mucous membranes of the mouth or digestive tract.

4. "Crawfish Fat" (Yellow Substance)

The yellow portion found in the crawfish's head consists of the ovary and hepatopancreas. It may contain high levels of cholesterol and pollutants, making it unsuitable for consumption.

5. Gills

The gills, located on both sides of the crawfish's head, are respiratory organs that can easily accumulate bacteria and parasites. Therefore, they are also not recommended for eating.

Individuals allergic to seafood should strictly avoid consuming crawfish to prevent allergic reactions such as rashes, itching, and difficulty breathing. It is also advisable to maintain a balanced diet and control portion sizes to avoid excessive consumption of crawfish, which contributes to maintaining overall health.

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What is the yellow substance inside a crawfish's head, and is it edible?

The hepatopancreas is the digestive organ of the crayfish, responsible for metabolism and toxin storage. It can easily accumulate heavy metals, bacteria, and other harmful substances, which may be difficult to completely remove even with high-temperature cooking. Consumption may cause adverse effects on the body. Although the gonads contain certain nutrients, they are mixed together with the hepatopancreas and are difficult to accurately distinguish, increasing the risk of inadvertently ingesting harmful substances.

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Can patients with hyperthyroidism eat crawfish?

Patients with hyperthyroidism can eat crayfish, but it is not recommended to consume them in large quantities. Although crayfish are nutritious, patients should still eat them in moderation to avoid excessive intake that may lead to indigestion or other health problems. Patients should choose light and healthy cooking methods, such as steaming or garlic-flavored preparations, and avoid cooking methods with heavy oil, excessive salt, or strong spices such as chili peppers.