Surströmming: The Secrets of this Stinky Swedish Fish

Reactions Science Videos | June 27, 2018

Surstromming, Swedish for sour herring, is legendary for its powerful stink. But it's all a result of the chemistry of preserving food. This week on Reactions, we learn about the world's smelliest food with help from the people who know it best.

Sources:

Strictly anaerobic halophiles isolated from canned Swedish fermented herrings (Surströmming)

Surströmming: What you need to know before trying Sweden's fermented herring

Surströmming Revisited: Eating Sweden's Famously Stinky Fish

Fermented and ripened fish products in the northern European countries

Fish Spoilage Mechanisms and Preservation Techniques: Review

A review on mechanisms and commercial aspects of food preservation and processing

butyric acid

propionic acid

Protect Yourself from Botulism

Beware: the surströmming is let out of the can!

Ever wonder why dogs sniff each others' butts? Or how Adderall works? Or whether it's OK to pee in the pool? We've got you covered: Reactions a web series about the chemistry that surrounds you every day.

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