How to Tell if Shrimp Is Fresh

Peel shrimp from their shells before eating.

Although minuscule in size, shrimp is packed with a load of nutritional benefits. Shrimp is high in omega-3 fatty acids and protein and low in fat. They are also a good source of vitamin D and vitamin B12. Shrimp is also a versatile shellfish to prepare, as it can be eaten cold and served with cocktail sauce or sauteed and tossed with pasta. When choosing fresh shrimp from the store, always scrutinize the shrimp to make sure you are selecting the freshest ones.

Instructions

1. Look for shrimp with shiny shells, an indication of the freshest shrimp.

2. Smell the shrimp. Shrimp may have a slight ocean smell, but if they have any ammonia odor, it is a sign that the shrimp are going bad.

3. Feel the shrimp. Fresh shrimp should not feel slimy in any way.

4. You can also buy frozen shrimp peeled or unpeeled in the grocery store. Check frozen shrimp bags for loose shrimp. Avoid bags with frozen blocks of shrimp; this is a sign of shrimp that defrosted and froze again.

References

• Hitched Magazine; How to Buy, Select and Prepare Shrimp; Cheryl Tallman
• Real Simple; How to Choose and Prepare Shrimp; Sara Quessenberry

Resources

• Shrimp Recipes: Shrimp Recipes