How to Choose Fresh Seafood: What to Look For
When it comes to seafood, freshness makes all the difference. But how can you tell you're getting quality fish and shellfish? A few simple things can help you shop with confidence.
Start With the Smell
Fresh seafood shouldn't have an overpowering "fishy" smell. It should smell clean and mild, more like the ocean. A strong sour or ammonia-like odor can be a sign that seafood isn't at its best.
Take a Look
Fresh fish fillets should generally have firm flesh and a fresh, moist appearance. When buying whole fish, look for clear, bright eyes and red or pink gills. Avoid fish with dried-out edges, discoloration or flesh that looks unusually soft.
Frozen Can Be Fresh, Too
Don't automatically rule out frozen seafood. Fish is often frozen soon after it's caught, which can preserve excellent quality.
When buying frozen seafood, look for packages that are completely frozen and intact. Excessive ice crystals, discoloration or liquid inside the package can indicate that the product has been stored too long or may have thawed and been refrozen.
Buy From Someone You Trust
One of the easiest ways to get great seafood is to buy from a knowledgeable seafood market that knows how its products have been sourced, stored and handled.
And don't be afraid to ask questions. What's freshest today? What's in season? How much do I need? What's the best way to cook it? A good seafood counter should be able to help.
At Bucks County Seafood Marketplace, that's exactly what we're here for. Stop in, see what's fresh, and ask us anything. We'll help you find the right seafood for dinner, a weekend crab feast or your next big gathering.
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