Dried shredded squid

Dried shredded squid, also known as dried shredded cuttlefish, is a cherished seafood snack popular in many parts of Asia, Russia, and Hawaii. This delectable treat originates from the coastal regions of East and Southeast Asia, gaining traction in countries such as Hong Kong, Macau, China, Japan, Korea, and Singapore. People relish it as a snack or pair it with alcoholic beverages.

The creation of dried shredded squid involves several meticulous steps: cooking, seasoning, drying, and packaging. Various ingredients, including sugar, salt, sorbitol, sweeteners, organic acids, and MSG, are incorporated to enhance its flavor. The squid undergoes repeated shredding, seasoning, and drying processes to achieve the ideal chewy texture and exquisite taste. To maintain its freshness and chewiness, the snack is typically packaged in airtight containers.

In Singapore, dried shredded squid holds a special place in the hearts of many. It was famously marketed as the "Chewing gum of the Orientals" by Ken Ken. For older generations, it evokes nostalgic memories of enjoying the snack before the ban on chewing gum in 1992. The snack’s flavor is a delightful combination of chewy squid intermingled with hints of sugar, chili pepper, and salt.

However, it is important to be mindful of potential contamination concerns. There have been reports of toxic metals, such as arsenic, found in some packaged dried shredded squid sold in Hong Kong. Despite these concerns, dried shredded squid remains a unique and flavorful snack with significant cultural importance across various Asian regions.