How does bad shrimp taste?

Bad shrimp, unfortunately, doesn't have a single, definitive "bad" taste. It's more about a combination of off-putting qualities that signal it's gone bad:

* Ammonia-like or fishy smell: This is the most obvious sign. Good shrimp have a mild, slightly sweet smell. Bad shrimp smell pungent and fishy, almost like ammonia.

* Slimy or sticky texture: Fresh shrimp should feel firm and springy. If they feel slimy or sticky, they've gone bad.

* Gray or discolored flesh: Fresh shrimp have a translucent, pearly pink or white flesh. If the flesh is gray or discolored, it's a sign of spoilage.

* Mushy or watery texture: Fresh shrimp are firm and juicy. If they're mushy or watery, they've been sitting too long and the proteins are breaking down.

Taste: The taste of bad shrimp can vary depending on how far gone it is. Some people describe it as:

* Bitter: This is a common taste of spoiled seafood.

* Metallic: A metallic taste can indicate the presence of harmful bacteria.

* Sour: A sour taste often accompanies a fishy or ammonia-like smell.

Important note: Even if bad shrimp doesn't taste terrible right away, eating it can make you very sick. The bacteria that cause spoilage can produce toxins that can lead to food poisoning.

Bottom line: If you suspect your shrimp is bad, don't take the risk. It's better to throw it away and buy fresh shrimp than to risk getting sick.