Do You Need To Rinse Salmon Before Cooking? An Expert Explains

Here’s what to know about rinsing salmon.

Should you rinse salmon?

Does Salmon Need To Be Rinsed?

Vacuum Packed Atlantic Salmon Belly in a Black Plastic Tray.

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No matter what kind of salmon you purchasewild or farmedthe advice remains the same.

To minimize the risk of bacterial spread, you shouldnt rinse the fish.

Choose salmon that looks moist as this is a sign of freshness.

Southern Living Pan Seared Salmon topped with herb butter on a plate to serve

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Rinsing salmon can potentially increase the risk of contamination, says Dr. Farzad.

Water splashes can spread bacteria from the salmon to other surfaces and foods in the kitchen, she says.

This is the reason many food safety experts agree that rinsing raw fish and meats isnt a good idea.

Using cold running water, carefully and quickly rinse the fish, instructs Dr. Farzad.

Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

Instead, Dr. Farzad says to cook the salmon skin-side down in a hot pan.

This will allow the skin to separate from the fresh as it cooks.

The USDA recommends cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.