Medicated squid usually refers to squid that has been treated with certain chemicals, which may include phosphates, monosodium glutamate, pigments, etc., in order to improve the color, taste or shelf life of the squid. Squid treated with these chemicals may have the following characteristics:
Color: Squid soaked in potion may have a more vivid or uniform color, usually due to the addition of pigment. The natural color of the squid may not be as appealing as the treated squid.
Texture: Squid meat that has been chemically treated may be more tender, as substances such as phosphate can improve the water retention of the meat and make the squid look fresher.
Palate: Processed squid may have a different mouthfeel, depending on the chemicals used. Some treatments may make the squid more elastic to eat.
Smell: Sometimes the potion treatment may change the smell of the squid so that it smells less seafoody, or sometimes it may smell like chemicals.
However, it is important to note that long-term consumption of chemical-treated squid may be detrimental to health. As a result, many countries and regions have strict food safety regulations that restrict or prohibit the use of certain chemicals in food processing.
When buying squid, you should try to buy fresh, non-over-processed squid products.