Is Raw Fish Safe to Eat?

Appears in
The Hog Island Book of Fish & Seafood: Culinary Treasures from Our Waters

By John Ash

Published 2023

  • About
Raw fish-based dishes, like crudo, sushi, and ceviche, have become very popular, but are they safe to eat?
There is always a risk from microbes or parasites in raw fish, whether you are consuming sashimi or ceviche. Ceviche is marinated in citrus juice, which does “cook” the outside of the fish, but depending on how long you let the fish marinate, that marinade might not penetrate all the way through.
To minimize risk, you should invest in the best fish from a reliable fishmonger who understands that the fish is to be consumed raw. Get to know and talk to them so you can make an informed decision.