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Lobsters are naturally red in color, which is caused by a carotenoid pigment, similar to that which is found in carrots. When the lobster is laying down its shell, the carotenoid pigment combines with protein, temporarily changing the pigment. Instead of reflecting red, which would be the normal color of the lobster pigment, the shell can display a variety of colors. Usually, the altered carotenoid shows up as a greenish-blue hue. Cooking breaks down the protein, releasing the carotenoid pigment. The lobster then turns its natural color, which is red. The change in color usually occurs rapidly since the protein begins to break down as soon as the lobster is immersed in boiling water.

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15y ago

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