Can you still eat fish that has gone bad and smells a little?

Generally, it is not recommended to eat fish that has gone bad and started to smell, as even a slight odor may pose safety risks, and consumption should be strictly avoided. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Fish spoilage and odor result from the extensive growth of microorganisms, which can produce harmful substances such as histamine and cadaverine. Even with high-temperature cooking, some toxins may not be completely destroyed, and consuming such fish may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, including symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In particular, sea fish are more prone to excessive histamine levels after spoilage, posing higher risks.

Some people may think that cutting off the smelly portion makes the rest safe to eat, but toxins might have already spread throughout the entire fish meat, even if no obvious odor is present. Moreover, spoiled fish loses most of its nutritional value and has extremely poor texture, making it entirely unfit for consumption.

In daily life, fish should be promptly refrigerated or frozen after purchase. If the fish becomes sticky, changes color, or develops an unusual smell, it should be discarded immediately. Developing the habit of never eating spoiled food is essential for maintaining food safety.