Determining whether shrimp is cooked thoroughly is crucial to ensure its safety and optimal enjoyment. Cooked shrimp should have an opaque, pearly white flesh that is firm to the touch. The shells should be pink or red, and the tails should curl inward.
Undercooked shrimp can harbor harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses. Overcooked shrimp, on the other hand, becomes tough and rubbery. Therefore, it is essential to cook shrimp to the proper internal temperature of 120F (49C) as measured by a food thermometer.