Why important to do SHINKEI-JIME ?

SHINKEI-JIME, a traditional Japanese fish preservation technique, is important for several reasons related to quality, safety, and ethical treatment.
Here’s why it’s crucial:

1. Quality Preservation

• Flavor and Texture:
  SHINKEI-JIME is performed immediately after catching the fish.
  By destroying the spinal cord with a thin wire, it prevents the fish from thrashing and using up its energy reserves, which can cause the fish’s flesh to toughen.
  This technique preserves the fish’s natural flavor and texture, making it particularly valuable for high-end cuisine like sushi and sashimi.
• Prevents Deterioration:
  The technique slows down the onset of rigor mortis and the breakdown of muscle tissues, which helps in maintaining the freshness of the fish for a longer time. This is essential for preserving the delicate qualities of the fish.

2. Safety

• Reduces Bacterial Growth:
  By immediately neutralizing the nervous system, SHINKEI-JIME reduces the spread of bacteria that can lead to spoilage.
  This method extends the shelf life of the fish and enhances food safety by minimizing the risk of bacterial contamination.

3. Ethical Treatment

• Humane Process:
  SHINKEI-JIME is considered a more humane way to kill the fish.
  It minimizes the suffering of the fish by quickly stopping the nervous system, thereby preventing the prolonged stress and pain that would otherwise occur if the fish were left to die slowly.

4. Economic Value

• Market Premium:
  Fish that undergo SHINKEI-JIME are often considered of higher quality, leading to higher market prices.
  For fishermen and businesses, this means that fish treated with this method can command premium prices, especially in markets that value quality, such as in Japan and among gourmet chefs globally.

5. Cultural Significance

• Tradition and Craftsmanship:
  SHINKEI-JIME is part of a long-standing tradition of Japanese craftsmanship in food preparation. It reflects the deep respect for the ingredients and the desire to present the best possible product to the consumer.

In summary, SHINKEI-JIME is important not just for the immediate quality and safety of the fish but also for ethical reasons, economic benefits, and cultural preservation.