Can I still eat caged shrimp if they died and were refrigerated overnight?

Generally speaking, whether prawns (also known as "Jiwei shrimp") can be eaten after being dead and refrigerated overnight depends on their condition. If there are no signs of spoilage, they may still be safe to consume; however, if spoilage has occurred, they should not be eaten. The details are as follows:

Prawns are a common seafood rich in high-quality protein and essential minerals. If promptly refrigerated after death at a stable temperature between 0–4°C, bacterial growth remains relatively slow within one night. When the prawns remain intact, have no unpleasant odor, and possess firm flesh, they are generally safe for consumption. However, if they were left unrefrigerated for too long before cooling or were not properly sealed during refrigeration, significant bacterial growth may occur. Signs of spoilage include slimy texture, foul fishy smell, and discoloration. Consuming spoiled prawns may increase gastrointestinal strain and lead to discomfort such as bloating and diarrhea.

When selecting and storing prawns, it is advisable to choose live ones whenever possible. Dead prawns should be refrigerated as soon as possible and tightly sealed. Always carefully check for signs of spoilage before consumption, and ensure they are thoroughly cooked. In daily life, it's important to develop good food hygiene habits, properly handle and store ingredients, and maintain food safety.