What parts of crawfish can you not eat?

Answered by Jeremy Urbaniak

When it comes to eating crawfish, you can safely consume most of the edible parts. However, there are certain parts that are generally avoided by most people. Let’s delve into the different parts of a crawfish and discuss which ones are typically not eaten.

1. Shell: The shell of a crawfish is hard and not meant to be consumed. It is not digestible and can be quite tough to chew. Most people peel the shell before eating the meat inside.

2. Tail: The tail of a crawfish is where the majority of the meat is located. It is highly delicious and is the main part that people enjoy. However, some people choose not to eat the very tip of the tail, as it can be slightly gritty or sandy in texture. The rest of the tail meat is perfectly fine to consume.

3. Head: Surprisingly, the head of a crawfish is also edible and contains flavorful juices. Many people suck on the head to extract these juices, while others choose to discard it. The choice is entirely personal, but it is safe to eat the head if you enjoy the taste.

4. Antennae: The long and slender antennae of a crawfish are generally not eaten. They are not very meaty and can have a slightly chewy texture. Most people prefer to leave them aside and focus on the meatier parts.

5. Internal Organs: The internal organs of a crawfish, such as the hepatopancreas (also known as the “fat” or “mustard”), are considered a delicacy by some. However, they can also be an acquired taste and are not consumed by everyone. If you enjoy their unique flavor, you can safely eat them.

It’s important to note that if any crawfish died before boiling, you should exercise caution when consuming the meat. Dead crawfish can spoil quickly, and consuming spoiled seafood can lead to foodborne illnesses. To test the safety of the meat, smell it for any foul odors and examine its texture for any sliminess or discoloration. If in doubt, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid eating it.

While you can safely eat the meat in the body and head of a crawfish, most people avoid consuming the shell, tail tip, and antennae. The internal organs are an acquired taste and can be enjoyed if desired. Remember to be cautious when consuming crawfish that died before boiling to avoid any potential foodborne illnesses.