Is Walmart Salmon Safe to Eat Raw?

Salmon is a popular fish loaded with healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Many people enjoy eating it raw in dishes like sushi and poke bowls. But when it comes to buying raw salmon from Walmart, is it safe? Let’s take a closer look.

Overview of Raw Salmon Risks

Eating raw salmon does carry some inherent risks. Salmon may contain these harmful organisms:

• Bacteria like salmonella or listeria
• Parasites like tapeworms, roundworms, or flukes
• Viruses like hepatitis A

These organisms can cause foodborne illnesses with symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and chills

However, the risks are relatively low if the salmon is high quality and properly handled. The main risk factors are

• Eating poor quality or old salmon
• Cross-contamination from improper storage and handling
• Consuming salmon that hasn’t been previously frozen

So, is raw salmon from Walmart a good choice? Here are some things to think about:

Assessing Raw Salmon from Walmart

Walmart is a huge retail chain with stores across America. How does their salmon compare to other sources for raw consumption?.

Freshness

• As a high volume seller, Walmart salmon turns over quickly for freshness.

• However, there are concerns about inconsistent refrigeration temperatures in the seafood department.

• Lack of trained fishmongers means no experts assessing freshness.

• Overall freshness may be questionable compared to a dedicated fish market.

Handling

• Salmon is pre-packed, limiting human handling and contamination risks.

• However, there are widespread reports of unsanitary conditions in store seafood areas.

• Cross-contamination is still possible from unclean prep surfaces.

Types of Salmon

• Most Walmart salmon is previously frozen Atlantic farmed salmon.

• Farm-raised salmon is safer since it’s reared in controlled environments.

• No wild-caught salmon, which has a higher risk of parasites.

• Limited variety compared to a specialty fish market.

Labeling

• Walmart labels provide basic information like species, origin, etc.

• No designation that the salmon is sushi/sashimi grade or safe for raw consumption.

• Lack of trained staff means less info available on sourcing.

Freezing

• Most salmon at Walmart has been previously frozen to kill any parasites present.

• However, home freezers don’t reach cold enough temperatures to fully kill parasites.

• Without freezing guarantees, parasites could still be a risk.

Price

• Affordable pricing, though quality is questionable.

• Inexpensive farmed salmon from China has concerning quality control.

• Paying more doesn’t always guarantee better quality, however.

Best Practices for Safely Consuming Walmart Raw Salmon

Walmart salmon falls into a grey area when it comes to raw consumption. To enjoy it as safely as possible, follow these guidelines:

• Inspect the salmon first and don’t purchase if it smells fishy or looks slimy.

• Look for previously frozen Atlantic farmed salmon from Norway, Chile, or Canada.

• Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling the salmon. Avoid cross-contamination.

• Use a disinfecting solution to clean any bowls, utensils, boards and knives that touch the raw salmon.

• Thaw frozen salmon in the fridge, not sitting out. Don’t refreeze thawed salmon.

• Cook salmon to 145°F to kill any bacteria or parasites present. Destroy any leftover raw salmon.

• Take extra precautions if you have a weaker immune system or are pregnant.

• Talk to your doctor first if you have concerns about parasites or foodborne illnesses.

• Stick to cooked salmon if you have lingering doubts about the raw product.

Alternatives to Walmart for Raw Salmon

Rather than consuming raw salmon of questionable quality from Walmart, consider these safer options:

• Order sushi-grade salmon online from reputable vendors like Blue Apron or Thrive Market.

• Purchase salmon labeled “sashimi-grade” from restaurant suppliers or high-end grocers like Whole Foods.

• Shop at specialty fish markets with knowledgeable fishmongers who can advise you.

• Buy salmon from local fishermen and processors that come recommended.

• Catch wild salmon yourself or get some from a friend’s catch if you can.

• Opt for raw salmon from a high-quality sushi restaurant you trust.

No retailer is 100% foolproof, but dedicated fish sellers likely take more care in sourcing, handling, and assessing salmon for raw consumption compared to large big-box stores.

The Bottom Line on Walmart Raw Salmon

So in the end, is it safe to eat raw salmon from Walmart? The answer is a cautious yes, but not without some risks.

Walmart salmon ticks many boxes like affordability, prior freezing, and farm-raised sourcing. However, questionable freshness, handling, labeling, and storage make the safety of Walmart salmon still debatable.

Inspect raw salmon from Walmart closely and take extra precautions when preparing it. And if you have any doubts, cook the salmon instead or purchase raw salmon from more trusted vendors. With the proper care and precautions, Walmart’s salmon can be a budget-friendly fish for enjoying raw. But it’s smart to be knowledgeable of the potential risks when making your decision.

Common Questions about Walmart Raw Salmon

Here are some frequently asked questions about consuming raw salmon purchased at Walmart:

Is previously frozen salmon safe to eat raw?

Yes, provided it has been frozen solid at -4°F or below for at least 7 days to kill parasites. Walmart salmon is typically previously frozen.

What’s the worst that can happen if you eat bad raw salmon?

Symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, and chills. In rare cases, severe illness or hospitalization. People with compromised immune systems are at greatest risk.

Is Atlantic or wild salmon better for sushi?

Farmed Atlantic salmon is safer since wild salmon has a higher parasite risk. However, wild salmon offers superior flavor and nutritional benefits.

Can you get salmonella from eating raw salmon?

It’s possible but relatively rare, as salmonella occurs in only about 8% of salmon. Proper handling and storage reduce the risk.

Is it bad to eat raw salmon every day?

Eating raw salmon daily should be fine, provided it’s high quality and fresh. But variety is still best, so rotate salmon with other omega-3-rich foods. Monitor for any symptoms.

What are the tiny white specks I see in raw salmon?

These are harmless fatty deposits that occur naturally in salmon. However, if you see larger worm-like parasites, do not consume the raw salmon.

Is raw salmon safe for pregnancy?

It’s best to avoid raw salmon when pregnant, as harmful bacteria and parasites can be very dangerous. Cooked salmon is a safer choice. Talk to your doctor.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, while there have been concerns about the safety of Walmart’s seafood products in general, their salmon is regulated by the FDA and is safe to consume. However, like any other food product, it’s important to be mindful of the risks associated with consuming raw or undercooked fish.

Purchasing previously frozen salmon, following food safety guidelines, varying your diet, and listening to your body can help mitigate concerns. Being an informed consumer when choosing raw salmon from any source is key.