There is much debate in the world today about whether or not it is permissible to eat shrimp. Some people believe that it is prohibited by the Bible, while others think that the Bible does not explicitly forbid it. What does the Bible actually say about eating shrimp, and is it truly forbidden by God?
The Bible does not actually explicitly forbid eating shrimp; however, it does lay out some dietary laws which, when applied, would effectively make shrimp off limits. In the Old Testament, Leviticus 11:9-12 states: “These you shall eat of all that are in the waters: whatsoever has fins and scales in the waters, in the seas, and in the rivers, them you shall eat. And all that have not fins and scales in the seas, and in the rivers, of all that move in the waters, and of all the living creatures that are in the waters, they are an abomination unto you…”
This passage tells us that God only wants us to eat animals that have fins and scales, and does not mention anything about shellfish like shrimp. While there is no explicit prohibition against eating shrimp, when this passage is taken as a whole, it can certainly be interpreted as making it a no-no. Likewise, Deuteronomy 14:9-10 also clashes with eating shellfish, only specifically mentioning crustaceans, like shrimp: “These you shall not eat, whatever is in the water: whatever has not fins and scales, that shall be an abomination to you.”
The fact that the Bible does not specifically prohibit eating shrimp makes it difficult to say definitively that we should not eat it. Ultimately, it is up to the individual and their interpretation of scripture. Some theologians even argue that these passages mainly refer to the ancient peoples’ belief that shellfish were unclean, and that they do not apply to modern society. Thus, even though there is a strong case to be made that eating shrimp could morally wrong, without a clear commandment in the Bible it would be up to each person to decide this for themselves.
Nutritional Benefits of Eating Shrimp
Regardless of whether or not eating shrimp is permitted by a higher power, it is still important to consider the nutritional benefits of shrimp. Shrimp is very low in calories and fat, but rich in protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Moreover, shrimp is rich in minerals like selenium and zinc, which are important for growth and development. Shrimp also contains important vitamins such as Vitamin B12 and B6, both of which play a role in converting carbohydrates into energy.
Shrimp is also a great choice for those looking to pack more protein into their dietary routine. Just three ounces of cooked shrimp provides about 21 grams of protein, making it a great option for athletes and bodybuilders alike. Additionally, shrimp can be easy to prepare and is quite versatile. It can be eaten raw, grilled, boiled, fried or sautéed, so there are plenty of ways to add shrimp to a nutritious diet.
Finally, shrimp’s mild flavor makes it a great addition to most dishes. It is a great source of lean protein, making it an ideal choice for people who are looking for a low-calorie but still high-protein alternative to red meat.
Environmental Impact of Eating Shrimp
Unfortunately, the environmental impact of eating shrimp should not be overlooked. Commercial shrimp fisheries are a major source of environmental degradation and are one of the leading causes of habitat destruction in coastal areas around the world. Shrimp trawling, especially in oceanic regions, is especially detrimental, as it leads to significant reductions in the diversity of marine habitats.
Furthermore, the use of shrimp farming (or aquaculture), though often touted as a sustainable and environmentally friendly way of obtaining seafood, often has damaging ecological effects. Shrimp farms are typically very intensive and can lead to the depletion of natural resources and the destruction of vital habitats. Moreover, shrimp feed typically contains other fish, which can lead to increased competition for food sources and the over-harvesting of wild species.
As a result, it is important to consider not only the nutritional value of shrimp but also its environmental impact when making decisions about whether or not to eat it. If it is determined that eating shrimp is permissible, then it is essential to take into account the ecological implications of consuming it.
Alternatives to Eating Shrimp
For those who choose not to eat shrimp due to moral or environmental reasons, there are plenty of alternative sources of protein. Sustainably caught fish, such as tuna and mackerel, are good sources of both protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Plant-based proteins such as beans, legumes, and nuts are also great sources of protein and can easily replace shrimp in most dishes. Soy products, such as tofu, are also excellent meat substitutes that can provide all the essential nutrients found in shrimp.
Eggs are another great source of protein, though they should be consumed in moderation. And, if all else fails, most grocery stores now offer a variety of meat substitutes, such as tempeh, seitan, and quorn. These products can be a great way to get some extra protein without compromising one’s moral or environmental principles.
Health Risks of Eating Shrimp
Regardless of one’s opinion on whether or not it is permissible to eat shrimp, it is important to be aware of the potential health risks. Shrimp is one of the most common seafoods to be contaminated with pollutants such as mercury, which can be extremely dangerous if consumed in high levels. Moreover, specific species of shrimp can be contaminated with antibiotics and other chemicals, which can cause a variety of health problems. It is essential to ensure that shrimp is properly sourced, and to make sure that it is thoroughly cooked before eating.
Finally, shrimp may contain a type of aggressive parasite known as the nematode Anisakis. This parasite can cause serious gastrointestinal illness, leading to discomfort and vomiting. Properly inspecting and cooking shrimp can reduce the risk of infection, but it is still important to be aware of the possibility.
Cost of Eating Shrimp
In addition to the moral and environmental considerations, the cost of eating shrimp is also important. Shrimp is generally more expensive than other seafood such as cod and tuna, so it may not be a cost-effective option for those on a budget. Moreover, the environmental costs of eating shrimp can be significant. As previously mentioned, commercial shrimp harvesting can lead to significant damage to coastal habitats, so it is important to keep this in mind when budgeting for seafood.
Additionally, shrimp that is sustainably caught, or farm-raised in an environmentally responsible manner, can be significantly more expensive than regular shrimp. Though this shrimp may be more ecologically responsible, it may not be a cost-effective option depending on one’s budget. As such, it is important to properly weigh the moral, environmental, and financial costs of eating shrimp before making a decision.
Conclusion
Ultimately, what the Bible says about eating shrimp is up for interpretation. Though there are passages that can be interpreted as prohibiting the consumption of shrimp, there is no explicit commandment that forbids it. People thus must consider their own religious and moral beliefs and decide for themselves if eating shrimp is right for them. Moreover, it is important to consider the environmental and health impacts of eating shrimp, as well as the cost of finding sustainably caught and raised shrimp.
