Shark Meat Preparation: Safety Tips and Cooking Methods

By. Tri - 30 Sep 2025

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lautnusantara.com_ Preparing shark meat safely requires special care, since some parts of the shark contain harmful compounds such as trimethylamine oxide (TMAO) that can break down into urea or ammonia, and sharks are also known to have high levels of mercury. If not handled properly, the meat can taste bitter, smell strongly, and even cause health issues.

Here are some general steps to process shark meat so it is safe to consume:

1. Selection and Initial Cleaning

  • Choose fresh shark meat (firm flesh, not slimy or foul-smelling).
  • Remove the internal organs immediately after catching, as they decompose quickly and can contaminate the flesh.
  • Rinse the meat several times under running water to reduce urea and ammonia content.

 

2. Soaking

  • Soak the shark meat pieces in salt water or lime/lemon juice for 30–60 minutes.
  • Alternatively, use vinegar or tamarind water to neutralize odors and bind harmful compounds.
  • Replace the soaking water a few times until the strong smell subsides.

 

3. Pre-Boiling

  • Boil the shark meat in water with salt or slices of ginger.
  • Discard the first batch of boiling water, as it usually contains dissolved urea and impurities.
  • Repeat the boiling process if the meat still has a strong odor.

 

4. Final Cooking

  • Once pre-boiled, the shark meat can be cooked in various ways: fried, grilled, curried, or stewed with spices.
  • Use plenty of herbs and spices (turmeric, coriander, garlic, ginger, lemongrass) to remove any remaining odor.

 

5. Important Notes

  • Avoid excessive consumption, as shark meat can contain high levels of mercury.
  • Make sure the shark species is legal to consume and not listed as endangered or protected.

 

Shark meat can be consumed safely if it is handled and processed correctly. The main steps include proper cleaning right after the catch, soaking in acidic or salty solutions to reduce toxins and odor, pre-boiling to remove harmful residues, and cooking with rich spices to enhance flavor. However, moderation is essential due to the risk of high mercury content. Additionally, consumers should ensure the shark species being used is not protected or endangered. By following these precautions, shark meat can be transformed from a potentially unsafe ingredient into a flavorful and nutritious dish.The key to making shark meat safe is quick cleaning, acidic/salty soaking, pre-boiling, and cooking with strong spices.

 

 

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