What should be done with raw seafood that has been marinated?

Raw seafood that has been marinated must be cooked before serving to ensure safety. Marinating raw seafood can impart flavor and sometimes change its texture, but it does not eliminate harmful pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites that may be present. Cooking the seafood to the appropriate internal temperature is essential for killing these harmful organisms.

While some methods of marination, such as using acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus juice, may appear to 'cure' the seafood (similar to ceviche), these processes do not fully eliminate the risk of foodborne illness. This is why it is critical to cook marinated raw seafood before consumption to ensure it is safe to eat.

Refrigerating marinated seafood for a limited time might preserve its quality but does not make it safe to eat raw. Discarding the seafood would not be necessary if it is handled correctly and cooked afterward. Therefore, cooking marinated raw seafood is the best practice for food safety.