You’ve probably heard the old saying, “no matter how poor you are, you should never eat golden eel.” This little nugget of wisdom has been handed down through generations, although it might lack scientific backing. Let’s delve into why this belief exists, rooted in rich cultural and traditional contexts.

First off, golden eels are often seen as unlucky creatures in many East Asian cultures, including Vietnam. It’s thought that eating them might invite bad luck into one’s life, possibly leading to misfortune or tough times.

Moreover, in some traditions, golden eels are associated with poverty and struggle. Despite being tasty and nutritious, they appear in stories as symbols of financial hardship and scarcity.

In many folk tales, the golden eel is a “strange creature” linked to life’s negative aspects. Thus, the caution from ancestors against consuming golden eel is seen as a move to avoid potential misfortune.

It’s important to note that these beliefs are cultural and not scientific facts. In reality, golden eel remains a nutritious dish relished by many. These stories illustrate how cultural and spiritual beliefs strongly influence people’s lives.