Shrimp is prized worldwide for its mild sweetness and versatility, fitting just as easily into casual meals as elegant dishes. Yet even with its popularity, cooks still debate the thin dark line along its back, often called the “vein,” and whether it should be removed.

Despite the name, “this line is not a vein at all.” It is the shrimp’s digestive tract, visible through the flesh. What it looks like depends on what the shrimp last ate, which explains why it can range from barely visible to thick and dark.

From a health perspective, eating shrimp that hasn’t been deveined is usually safe. When shrimp is fresh and properly cooked, heat destroys harmful bacteria, including anything in the tract. Many cultures regularly eat shrimp whole without issue.

The main reason for removing it is quality, not safety. The tract can sometimes add a bitter or muddy flavor and, if it contains sand, an unpleasant gritty texture. These issues can interfere with the shrimp’s natural taste.

Appearance also matters. The dark line can be distracting in lighter dishes, and removing it gives shrimp a cleaner look and helps it cook more evenly. In the end, deveining is about preference. For simple meals it may not matter, but for dishes where shrimp shines, it often signals extra care and attention to detail.