Why not eat freshwater fish raw?

You shouldn't eat freshwater fish raw for the same reason you wouldn't eat raw chicken or pork: parasites and bacteria.

Here's why freshwater fish pose a higher risk than saltwater fish:

* Parasites: Freshwater fish are more likely to carry parasites like roundworms, flukes, and tapeworms than saltwater fish. These parasites can cause serious illness in humans.

* Bacteria: Freshwater fish can also harbor bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli. These bacteria can cause food poisoning, leading to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and fever.

* Environment: Freshwater environments are often more polluted than saltwater environments, which can increase the risk of contamination in fish.

While some freshwater fish are eaten raw in certain cultures, it's important to note that:

* Proper preparation is crucial: These cultures often use techniques like freezing, pickling, or curing to kill parasites and bacteria.

* The risks are still present: Even with proper preparation, there is still a risk of illness from eating raw freshwater fish.

It's always best to cook freshwater fish thoroughly to ensure safety.

Here are some additional points to consider:

* Fish species: Some freshwater fish species are more likely to carry parasites than others.

* Source: Fish from pristine, unpolluted waters are likely to be safer than fish from polluted waters.

* Individual risk tolerance: Some individuals may be more susceptible to illness from raw fish than others.

If you're unsure about the safety of eating raw freshwater fish, it's best to err on the side of caution and cook it thoroughly.