Fresh seafood is one of the most perishable foods, so it’s essential to buy and store it correctly. Whether you’re buying whole fish, fillets or shellfish, certain characteristics can help determine if it’s fresh or spoiled.
Smell:
A good indication of freshness is the absence of an unpleasant odor, such as fishy or sour. If the seafood does, it could have started to spoil and should be discarded.
Eyes:
The eyes of a fish should be clear and full, free from cloudiness or glistening. They should be surrounded by a dorsal fin that is firm and bright red or pink in color, free from loose or sloughing slime.
Gills:
The gills of a fish should be bright red or pink, firm and frilly-looking. When gently pressed, they should spring back to their original shape.
Flesh:
The flesh of the fish should be firm and glossy, free from discoloration or flaking. Pressing should also cause the flesh to bounce back when pressured.
Leg Movement:
Live crabs and lobsters should show some leg movement to indicate they are still alive. If the crab or lobster does not move, discard it immediately.
Labels:
When purchasing shellfish, look for tags and labels indicating they have been processed according to FDA-approved standards. You may also check for certification numbers.
Sustainability:
Fishing methods and the scale at which fish are caught have an immense effect on the ocean’s health. By purchasing seafood that has been responsibly caught and not overfished, you can help maintain this vital ecosystem for all marine creatures.
If you have any doubts about the sustainability of your seafood, speak to your fishmonger. If they are not knowledgeable on this subject, request a referral to a more reliable supplier.
Responsible retailers will be happy to answer your queries and provide information regarding the sustainability of their fish. Often they utilize third-party labels like Marine Stewardship Council, Friends of the Sea seals or Best Aquaculture Practices as assurance of good practices.
Shopping at these retailers helps you avoid the toxins and other hazards caused by irresponsible fishing practices. For more information about these issues, visit the Marine Stewardship Council or Friend of the Sea websites for further explanation.
Whole Foods Market and Wegmans are two stores known for their commitment to sustainability, which often display labels identifying the fishing methods employed by the fish farms they purchase from.
When purchasing fish, it should be stored properly – either in a tank or on ice. Doing this helps prevent bacteria from growing and causing your seafood to spoil.
Remember, fresh seafood does not last long and so it is best to purchase it as soon as possible after entering the store or market. That way, your food will remain at its optimum freshness and taste great.
When cooking fresh seafood, keep its raw juices contained. Doing so helps reduce bacterial contamination and cross-contamination in your kitchen.