Can the internal organs of the East Star Grouper be eaten?
Nov 29, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Huang Yuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the internal organs of the leopard coral grouper (Dongxing Ban) are not recommended for consumption. A small amount of properly handled liver may be tried occasionally, but there are health risks involved, so it is not recommended as a regular ingredient. When consuming leopard coral grouper, only the fresh, tender flesh should be eaten. Choose live, freshly caught specimens when purchasing to ensure freshness. Cook thoroughly before eating and avoid raw or undercooked preparations.
Under normal circumstances, the internal organs of the Humphead Wrasse (Eastern Star Grouper) are not recommended for consumption. A small number of properly processed livers may be tried in limited amounts, but there are health risks involved, and they are not recommended as a regular food ingredient. The detailed analysis is as follows:
As a deep-sea fish, the internal organs of the Humphead Wrasse are the primary sites for accumulation of pollutants and toxins, where heavy metals and parasites tend to remain. In particular, the gallbladder contains toxic substances; accidental ingestion may cause discomfort such as nausea and vomiting, and even high-temperature cooking cannot completely eliminate these risks. Additionally, due to their digestive and metabolic functions, internal organs may carry bacteria, increasing the likelihood of foodborne illnesses.
Some people may attempt to eat thoroughly cleaned Humphead Wrasse liver, appreciating its unique texture. However, this practice still requires caution—connective tissues must be completely removed, the liver should be rinsed repeatedly, and cooked at high temperatures for an extended period. Even then, absolute safety cannot be guaranteed. Moreover, the liver is high in cholesterol, which is detrimental to cardiovascular health, so frequent or excessive consumption is not advisable.
When consuming Humphead Wrasse, it is best to choose the tender flesh of the fish. Purchase live, fresh specimens to ensure ingredient freshness. Cook thoroughly and avoid eating it raw or undercooked. For daily meals, prioritize food safety by selecting ingredients with low risk and clear nutritional benefits to protect your dietary health.
