Parasite Risks in Salted and Dried Fish

By. Edi - 06 Sep 2025

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lautnusantara.com Choosing salted or dried fish can be a practical and delicious option, but is the salting and drying process enough to eliminate the risk of parasites? The answer is not always. While these processes can significantly reduce the risk, there are a few things you need to know.

How Salting and Drying Work
Both salting (using salt) and drying (removing water) are effective preservation methods that prevent the growth of bacteria and microorganisms. Salt draws water from fish cells, including parasite cells, thus inhibiting their activity. Meanwhile, the sun or oven drying process also directly reduces the water content, which parasites need to survive.

However, these methods are not always 100% reliable in killing all types of parasites. Some parasites, especially those in the cyst form, can be more resistant to extreme conditions. The effectiveness of salting and drying depends heavily on several factors:

  • Time of process: Fish that is salted or dried for too short a time may still harbor live parasites.
  • Salt content: An insufficient salt concentration will not kill all parasites.
  • Temperature: A drying process that does not reach the optimal temperature may not kill parasites.
  • Parasite Type: Some types of parasites are more resistant to salt and dryness than others.

Remaining Risks
Although rare, the risk of parasites from salted or dried fish remains. If the fish is not processed properly or if there are particularly resistant parasites, they can survive. Parasites such as tapeworms and roundworms can be a problem if the fish is not processed properly, and they can cause infections in humans.

Tips for Safely Preparing Salted and Dried Fish
To ensure the salted or dried fish you consume is safe, follow these simple guidelines:

  • Wash Thoroughly: Before cooking, wash the salted or dried fish under running water to remove any remaining salt and dirt.
  • Cook Thoroughly: The key is to cook the fish thoroughly. Cooking fish by frying, sautéing, or boiling at high temperatures will kill any parasites that may still be alive.
  • Buy from a Trusted Source: Make sure you buy products from a reputable seller who maintains hygiene and processing standards.

By following these steps, you can enjoy salted or dried fish with more peace of mind, while minimizing health risks.

 

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