This info will come in clutch the next time you make scampi, gumbo, cioppino, popcorn shrimp.

By 2021, that average jumped to 21 pounds annually.

This shift is terrific for our tickersfish and seafood are rich in heart-healthyomega-3 fatsand for our taste buds.

Rinsing shrimp in water

Credit:Jacob Fox

But it isnt always easy to know exactly how to prepare these diverse sea proteins.

Should you wash shrimp before adding it to, say, ashrimp cocktailorseafood boil?

Read on for the unanimous answer verified by five seafood-savvy chefs and food safety experts.

Drying shrimp on cutting board with paper towel

Credit:Jacob Fox

Jacob Fox

Should You Wash Shrimp?

Shrimp absorb the water around them, which is why theyre so flavorful after being marinated.

(OurMarinated Shrimp Salad with Creamy Dill Dressingis delicious proof.

One fan deems theeasy lunchidea, scrumptious and easy.).

Fully thawed shrimp is also A-OK to use as-is.

Or toquickly thaw frozen shrimp, add the shellfish in its unopened package to a bowl of cool water.

Use a small plate or other object to keep the shrimp submerged.

Refresh the cool water every 10 minutes until the shrimp are de-iced.

This is a sign that the shrimp are no longer safe for consumption, and should be discarded.

5 Tips For Washing Shrimp, if You Choose to Do So

Prefer to rinse?

Keep these pointers in mind for how to wash shrimp: