Answer:

From a traditional Vietnamese perspective, carp offered during the Kitchen God ritual hold special significance. These carp are considered "steeds" that carry the Kitchen God to heaven. Additionally, the ritual release of carp demonstrates compassion, goodwill, and a wish for abundant life. Therefore, consuming these carp is seen as disrespectful and diminishes the spiritual meaning of the ceremony.

The red carp used for offerings are often industrially farmed. To keep them alive in small basins at markets, vendors may use stimulants or high doses of antibiotics. Confined in cramped plastic bags or plastic basins, these fish often lack oxygen. Their water sources are frequently unhygienic, containing chlorine from tap water or being murky pond water, posing a risk of releasing toxins or bacterial contamination. Ceremonial carp are typically sold on roadsides and sidewalks, making them susceptible to accumulating dirt and vehicle exhaust.

Ceremonial carp often hold spiritual significance; people typically release them rather than preparing them for food. Photo: Giang Huy

In reality, consuming carp offers several health benefits, particularly for ill individuals and pregnant women. However, these small ceremonial carp do not taste as good or sweet as larger varieties. If you wish to eat carp, you should purchase larger, fresh food-grade carp from reputable stores or supermarkets for preparation.

When preparing carp, one must thoroughly clean them, removing the slimy layer on the fish's skin and the black membrane in its belly. It is essential never to consume the fish gallbladder, as it can cause poisoning.

Associate Professor, Doctor Nguyen Duy Thinh

Institute of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Hanoi University of Science and Technology