What is the dark muscle in fish, and is it safe to eat

You bring home a fresh fish, ready to fry or curry, and notice a strip of darker flesh running near the spine or along the sides. It looks reddish brown or gray, very different from the flaky white meat you are used to. This is what is commonly called dark muscle in fish. But is it safe to eat, or does it indicate the fish has gone bad? The answer is more nuanced than many think. Scientists studying fish muscle structure have found that dark muscle is a normal part of a fish’s anatomy. In fact, a study on lipid oxidation in dark and ordinary fish muscles found that dark muscle contains higher fat and oxygen-binding proteins. This makes it nutritionally rich but also more prone to spoilage compared to white flesh. Understanding these factors helps you enjoy fish safely without unneces