When you're shopping for seafood, quality is everything. The freshness of the fish and shellfish you buy will make all the difference in the taste and texture of your final dish. That's why it's so important to know what to look for when you visit a local seafood market like Astoria Seafood Direct.
What to Look For When You Visit a Local Seafood Market
What to Look For When You Visit a Local Seafood Market
The Smell of the Sea
A fresh seafood market should smell like the ocean: clean and briny. If you walk in and are hit with a strong, fishy odor, that's a red flag. Fresh fish doesn't have a pungent smell. Trust your nose—it's one of the best tools you have for gauging freshness.
Bright, Clear Eyes
When buying whole fish, always look at the eyes. They should be bright, clear, and plump. Cloudy, sunken, or dull eyes are a sure sign that the fish is not fresh. The eyes are one of the first things to deteriorate, so they are a great indicator of quality.
Firm and Moist Flesh
Whether you're buying fillets or whole fish, the flesh should be firm to the touch and have a moist appearance. If the flesh is soft, mushy, or looks dry and flaky, it's best to avoid it. Gently press the fish with your finger; if it springs back, it's a good sign of freshness.
Vibrant Gills and Skin
For whole fish, check the gills—they should be a rich, vibrant red. Brown or pale gills indicate that the fish has been out of the water for too long. The skin of the fish should also be shiny and metallic, with the scales intact. Dull skin is another sign of age.
By keeping these four signs of quality in mind, you can be confident that you're choosing the best and freshest seafood for your next meal. At Astoria Seafood Direct, we pride ourselves on delivering only the highest quality seafood, so you can enjoy the taste of the sea at home. Contact us today or browse today's fresh catch!