Ways to Check the Freshness of Fish 0 11

If you are considering pre-packaged seafood, be sure to pay attention to the main indicators of freshness. Chef Alexander Guryaev listed them.

“Quality fish looks as if it has just been pulled out of the water: it has shiny and slightly moist, but not sticky scales. Avoid dry fish with the first signs of oxidation — this is a clear sign of an old product,” noted Guryaev.

As for the gills, their healthy color is red. Different species may have gills in bright or dark shades, but the main thing is that they should not be grayish and should not emit unpleasant-smelling mucus. By the way, unscrupulous sellers may dye the gills with blood, so do not hesitate to sniff and carefully inspect the product.

“It may sound strange, but a useful tip is to remember to look into the fish's eyes. Make sure they are bulging, shiny, and, most importantly, clear. A cloudy iris always indicates that the seafood is not very fresh,” added the brand chef.

If the fish looks fresh by all indicators but you still have doubts, check its firmness: when you press your finger on the flesh, it should quickly return to its original state without leaving dents or indentations.

As for frozen fish, a sign of quality is an even color without suspicious spots. You should also pay special attention to the packaging. Make sure the bag is not damaged and is well sealed. If the integrity of the packaging is compromised, there is a risk of the product being contaminated with bacteria.

Be sure to check the labeling and expiration date of the product. If your eyes are dazzled by the variety, look for packaging with recently frozen fish — it has better taste qualities and a pleasant texture. The temperature regime in the freezer also affects this. The optimal range is from -12 to -18 degrees. The main thing is that the fish should be whole and without signs of defrosting.