What to Look for When Buying Fresh Whole Fish

Most people are aware that fish is a healthy addition to their diet but many are not aware of the benefits of eating whole fish. When fish is processed, important nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A and D can be lost. Processing also introduces harmful chemicals into the flesh of the fish.

By cooking fresh whole fish, you can be sure that you are getting all the nutrients that nature intended. In addition, they tend to be more flavorful and less “fishy” than their processed counterparts.

The wholesale salmon Brisbane can be a good addition to a healthy and delicious meal. But how do you know you’re getting them fresh?

What to Look for When Buying Fresh Whole Fish

1.   Bright and Shiny Eyes

When you’re shopping for whole fish, be sure to look for ones with bright and shiny eyes. This is a good indicator that the fish is fresh. The eyes should be clear and not sunken in. If they are, it’s a sign that the fish is starting to spoil.

2.   Firm Flesh

What’s the best way to tell if fish is fresh?

There are a few key indicators, but one of the most important is firmness. When fish flesh is soft or mushy, it’s a sure sign that the fish is past its prime. whole fish should have firm, resilient flesh that bounces back when you press it. If you’re unsure whether a fish is fresh, give it the touch test. If it passes, you know you’re getting a quality product.

3.   Intact Scales

Anyone who’s ever been to a seafood restaurant knows that whole fish are often presented with their scales intact. But what you may not know is that those scales are a good indicator of freshness.

When fish are caught, their scales act as a barrier, preventing oxygen from coming into contact with the flesh. This lack of oxygen means that bacteria can’t grow, and the fish stays fresh for longer. So, if you’re looking for truly fresh fish, make sure to check for intact scales.

4.   A Moist Surface with No Slimy Residue

Whole fish are the best type of fish to get because you know they’re fresh. When the fish have a moist surface with no slimy residue, it means they’re fresh and haven’t been sitting around for too long. Otherwise, they will start to develop a slimy residue which is a sure sign that they’re not as fresh as they could be.

5.   Red or Pinkish Gills

When buying whole fish, the first thing you should check is the gills. They should be red or pink, and not brown or black. If they’re anything other than red or pink, the fish is not fresh. Whole fish with black or brown gills have been dead for a while and are not fit for human consumption. If you see whole fish for sale with anything other than red or pink gills, run the other way!

6.   A Tight Belly Cavity

One of the best indicators that you’re getting a fresh whole fish is a tight belly cavity. This is because, as fish decompose, their belly cavities bloat up with gases. So, if you see a whole fish with a tight belly cavity, you can be pretty sure it’s fresh.

Essentially, there are other things to look for as well, like bright eyes and firm flesh. But if the belly cavity is loose or bloated, it’s time to move on to something else. After all, nobody wants to end up with a fishy stomach ache.

7.   No Brown Splotches or Bruising

Anyone who’s ever bought whole fish knows that the sight of brown splotches and bruises is a sure sign of an old, tired fish. These blemishes are caused by a build-up of lactic acid in the muscles, and they tend to be more prevalent in fish that have been sitting around for a while.

8.   No Strong “Fishy” Odour

One of the best things about whole fish is that they have no strong “fishy” odour. This is because they haven’t been sitting around in a can or a package, slowly going bad. Instead, they were caught just a few hours ago and are still fresh. As a result, they have a much milder smell that is more pleasant and appetising.

9.   Intact and Symmetrical Pectoral Fins

When you’re at the fish counter, whole fish should have intact and symmetrical pectoral fins. This is a good indication that the fish are fresh. They are also more attractive, so you’ll be getting the best-looking fish when you choose whole fish with intact fins.

10.        Skin is Not Torn or Punctured

When you’re at the fish counter, one way to tell if a fish is fresh is to check the skin. It should be intact and without any punctures or tears. If the skin is damaged, it is an indication that the fish has been mishandled or is starting to spoil.

Whole fish is also a more sustainable choice, as they allow you to make use of the entire fish. When buying whole fish, it is important to look for signs of freshness so you can enjoy not just its delectable taste but the nutrition that comes with it.

Contact KOI Seafoods today!