What happens if you eat the black vein in a shrimp’s tail?

When preparing shrimp, it’s common to notice a thin black line running along the top of the back. Often called a “vein,” many cooks take the time to remove it before cooking. But what actually happens if you eat it? Is it dangerous or simply a matter of preference?

What is the black vein in shrimp?

The first thing you should know is that this “vein” isn’t a vein at all. It’s part of the shrimp’s digestive tract, specifically its intestine. It’s a small line that may contain sand, sediment, or undigested food.