Phenomenon has intrigued some consumers – but has one (microscopic) explanation.
Cases of shellfish shining in the dark are rarely identified, but have surprised some consumers and those who follow them on social networks.
The phenomenon is normal and is due to Bioluminescent Bacteriacommon in the marine environment. The episodes, described in shrimp, crab and other shellfish that when removed from the freezer or prepared for a meal exhibit a greenish or bluish shine. But often the effect disappears before it can be demonstrated.
Most consumers have no symptoms after drinking food, although some cases of abdominal pain and headaches have been reported.
Analyzes performed to samples revealed the presence of bacteria as Photobacterium phosphoreum e For the Vibrio Logresponsible for the luminous phenomenon, according to the.
The first is known to live in symbiosis with abyssal fish, such as the tumoril, and its natural ability to emit light. Already the second was identified in the organs of Lula. Both can withstand low temperatures, maintaining bioluminescence even during storage in refrigerators or frozers.
But not all cases of bright shellfish recently detected in the US were harmless. Some involved processed products, such as crab meat imitations, which had dangerous pathogenic agents, including Listeria monocytogenes, Vibrio cholerae e Vibrio vulnificuswhich may pose serious health risks.
The recommendation? Play for insurance and do not eat the bioluminescent seafood, because although the culprit is probably the presence of harmless bacteria, brightness may also indicate contamination by potentially dangerous microorganisms.
Instead of eating, align in the luminous show: it is similar to the sea of, where it is possible to swim in bright neon blue waters, courtesy of plankton in that Australian water.
