Judy Taylor
Introduction: Why Remove the Eyes?
Have you ever wondered why fishermen remove the eyes of the fish they catch? This practice might seem strange to some, but it is actually quite common in fishing communities worldwide. There are various reasons why fishermen remove the eyes of the fish they catch, ranging from practical and sanitary reasons to cultural and superstitious beliefs. In this article, we will explore why this practice is so prevalent among fishermen.
Removing Eyes is Common Practice
Removing the eyes of the fish is a common practice among fishermen, and it is done for several reasons. One of the main reasons is practicality. The eyes are delicate and tend to deteriorate quickly, especially in warm temperatures. Leaving the eyes intact can cause the fish to spoil faster, making it unappetizing or even dangerous to eat. Removing the eyes ensures that the fish will last longer and remain fresh.
Practical & Sanitary Reasons
Apart from preserving the fish, removing the eyes also has practical and sanitary reasons. The eyes can be a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause the fish to rot and create an unpleasant odor. Additionally, the eyes can be a source of contamination, especially if they come in contact with other parts of the fish or other fish in the catch. Removing the eyes reduces the risk of infection and ensures that the fish remains safe for consumption.
Storing Fish with Eyes Intact
Storing fish with the eyes intact can also be a challenge. The eyes are fragile and can easily become damaged during transport or storage. This can lead to the fish becoming spoiled, making it unsafe for consumption. Removing the eyes ensures that the fish can be stored more easily and for longer periods without the risk of spoilage.
Eye Removal for Taxidermy
Removing the eyes can also be important for those who use fish for taxidermy purposes. The eyes of the fish are often the first part to deteriorate, and preserving them can be challenging. Removing the eyes ensures that the fish can be better preserved for display purposes.
Cultural & Superstitious Beliefs
In some cultures, removing the eyes is believed to bring good luck or ward off evil spirits. This practice is especially prevalent among Asian and African fishermen. Some fishermen believe that leaving the eyes in the fish can cause bad luck or make it harder to catch more fish in the future.
Preservation of the Fish
Removing the eyes can also help in the preservation of the fish. When the eyes are removed, the fish’s head is also usually cut off, which helps to drain the blood and the body fluids. This makes the fish less likely to spoil, ensuring that it remains fresh and safe for consumption.
Ease of Cooking
Removing the eyes also makes it easier to cook the fish. The eyes can be a sensitive area to cook, and removing them ensures that they do not become overcooked or undercooked. Additionally, removing the eyes can make it easier to season the fish for cooking.
Reducing Unpleasant Odors
Removing the eyes can also reduce unpleasant odors. The eyes can be a source of strong, fishy smells, and removing them can reduce the intensity of these smells. This can be especially important when cooking fish in enclosed spaces or when serving it to guests.
Decreasing the Chance of Infection
Finally, removing the eyes can decrease the chance of infection. The eyes can be a source of bacteria, and removing them reduces the risk of contamination. This can be especially important for those with weakened immune systems or for those who are more susceptible to foodborne illnesses.
In conclusion, removing the eyes of the fish is a common practice among fishermen for several reasons. From practical and sanitary reasons to cultural and superstitious beliefs, this practice ensures that the fish remains fresh, safe, and easy to cook. While it might seem strange to some, removing the eyes is an essential part of the fishing process that has been passed down for generations.
