Can the white fat inside the belly of a yellow croaker be eaten?
Dec 10, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Huang Yuhong
Introduction
In general, the white fat inside the yellow croaker's belly is edible, but it's not recommended to consume it in large amounts. When preparing the fish, remove the internal organs and gills first; the white fat can be left intact or partially removed according to personal preference. When selecting yellow croaker, choose fresh ones with bright eyes, bright red gill filaments, and firm, springy flesh. After bringing it home, rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove surface mucus.
Generally speaking, the white fat found in the belly of yellow croaker fish is edible, but it is not recommended to consume it in large amounts. Here's a detailed explanation:
The white fat inside yellow croaker is a natural tissue used by fish to store energy. It is rich in beneficial nutrients such as unsaturated fatty acids and phospholipids and does not contain harmful substances. These components are easily digested and absorbed by the human body, and during cooking they enhance the tenderness of the fish meat and enrich the flavor of soups, making them more aromatic and creamy. Compared to the fat in red meat, this type of fat has a finer texture, and moderate consumption does not place extra strain on the body. As long as the yellow croaker is fresh and the fat has no unpleasant odor, it is safe to eat.
When preparing yellow croaker, remove the internal organs and gills, but the white fat can be left intact or partially removed according to personal taste preference. When purchasing, choose fresh fish with bright eyes, bright red gill filaments, and firm, elastic flesh. After bringing it home, rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove surface mucus. If not using immediately, seal the fish in a ziplock bag and store it in the freezer to prevent oxidation of the fat, which could cause off-flavors. There's no need to over-clean the fatty areas before cooking; steaming or pan-frying helps preserve its nutritional value—just ensure the fish is fully cooked before eating.
