How to Buy Fresh Fish at the Market

Make sure the fish you are eating is fresh.

Truly fresh fish is a treat from nature. The best, freshest cuts bring the leanest of meats to your table, infused with the taste and smell of the ocean -- perfect candidates for a great fry, barbeque or bake.

Things You'll Need

• Insulated carrying bag

Instructions

1. Fresh fish will be firm to the touch when you press it. If it is the least bit squishy, move on.

2. Look at the eyes of the fish if it is whole. A fresh fish will have clear, not cloudy, eyeballs.

3. Look at the gills by lifting the flaps under the eyes. Fresh fish will have vibrant red gills that do not fall apart when you touch them.

4. Check the scales and feel the skin for sliminess. Any signs of dull scales will certainly indicate a less then fresh fish. If the scales come off very easily, it most likely isn't fresh, or at some point was frozen.

5. The smell of the fish should be nothing but a hint of salty air. Fresh fish will not smell like fish.

Tips & Warnings

• Most fish mongers will cut the fish any way you wish.

• Leave the skin on for barbecuing and score the skin before you place it on the grill.

• Get the fish home as soon as possible and into the refrigerator if you're not going to cook it right away. The fish will not stay fresh long if it is in warm places.

References

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Fresh and Frozen Seafood: Selecting and Serving it Safely