What To Do If I Accidentally Ate Raw Shrimp: Solved

Last Updated on September 11, 2024 by Shari Mason

Many people enjoy the occasional indulgence in the delightful flavor of shrimp. This type of seafood can be prepared in various ways to suit different tastes.

While some people like eating them raw, this is not something you want to do, as it could make you sick. 

Our team will discuss what to do if you accidentally eat raw shrimp. Read on.

What If I Accidentally Eat Raw Shrimp?

If you accidentally eat raw shrimp, it is important to monitor your symptoms and contact a healthcare professional if you experience any adverse reactions, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Raw shrimp can contain harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause food poisoning. It’s best to cook shrimp thoroughly to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to kill any harmful bacteria and viruses.

If you don’t feel well after eating raw shrimp, it’s best to seek medical advice.

If you have seafood allergies, you should go to the hospital immediately after eating raw shrimp. This is because there is a risk of anaphylactic shock, which can be fatal. But how long can you keep shrimp cocktail in the fridge?

How Long After Eating Raw Shrimp Will I Get Sick?

If you have eaten raw shrimp, you will likely start to feel sick within a few hours. The symptoms of food poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. 

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should contact a doctor or medical professional.

Read:

• Dishes To Serve With Shrimp & Grits For Lunch
• What Is The Vein On The Underside Of Shrimp?

Can Eating Raw Shrimp Kill You?

It depends. Eating raw shrimp is not typically fatal but can make you sick. If you have a seafood allergy, there is a risk of anaphylactic shock, which can be fatal or cause serious damage. 

Otherwise, the most common complication of eating raw shrimp is food poisoning. Find out how long cooked seafood can stay out.

Some Things To Consider

Watch Out For Symptoms

If you accidentally ate raw shrimp, watch out for symptoms of food poisoning. These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor or go to the emergency room immediately.

Avoid Certain Foods

There are certain foods that you should avoid if you have accidentally eaten raw shrimp. These include dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods. These can all aggravate the symptoms of food poisoning.

Drink Plenty Of Fluids

It is important to drink plenty of fluids if you have accidentally eaten raw shrimp. This will help to prevent dehydration, which can be a serious complication of food poisoning.

Drink water, juices, or sports drinks. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as these can dehydrate you.

Get Plenty Of Rest

Rest is important when you have food poisoning. Your body needs time to recover from the infection. Get plenty of sleep and take it easy for a few days.

Follow Up With Your Doctor

If you have any concerns, or if your symptoms don’t improve, follow up with your doctor. They can determine if you need any further treatment.

Read: Number of Oysters To Eat In A Day

FAQs

How long does shrimp poisoning last?

Symptoms of shrimp poisoning typically last for three to five days. In some cases, they may last for up to two weeks. [1]

Can you get sick from eating old shrimp?

Yes, you can get sick from eating old shrimp. Shrimp should be eaten within one to two days of being caught. After that, they start to spoil and can cause food poisoning.

Check out these tips if shrimp has gone bad in the fridge here.

Will I get sick after eating cold shrimp?

Not really. You may experience some gastrointestinal upset after eating cold shrimp, but it is unlikely that you will get sick. Shrimp are often served chilled or ice cold and are generally safe to eat.

In Summary

It is not safe to eat raw shrimp as it can contain harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause food poisoning.

It is important to cook shrimp thoroughly to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to kill any harmful bacteria and viruses.

If you accidentally eat raw shrimp and experience any adverse reactions, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, it is important to contact a healthcare professional for advice. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Reference:

1. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/fish-poisoning-ciguatera-scombroid