Guide to Picking the Freshest Seafood in the Market
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Guide to Picking the Freshest Seafood in the Market

FH
FarmyHub Editorial Team
Content Team

Seafood is incredibly versatile, whether you’re frying, grilling, steaming, or baking it. However, the secret to a world-class dish isn't just the recipe; it’s the freshness of the catch. Mastering the art of spotting high-quality seafood is a game-changer for any home cook.

Here is your essential guide to ensuring only the best fish and shellfish make it to your kitchen.

How to Tell if a Fish is Fresh

  • Check the Eyes: They should be bright, clear, and bulging. If the eyes are cloudy, hazy, or sunken, the fish has been sitting too long.

  • Inspect the Gills: Lift the gill cover. They should be a vibrant deep red or pink. Avoid fish with gills that are brownish, gray, or covered in slime.

  • Test the Texture: The skin should be shiny and the flesh firm. When you press it gently with a finger, it should spring back instantly rather than leaving a dent.

  • Follow Your Nose: Fresh fish shouldn't smell "fishy." It should have a clean, mild scent reminiscent of the ocean and salty air.

How to Pick Fresh Seafood by Type

  1. Bangus (Milkfish)

Shimmering silver scales, clear eyes, and a firm (not bloated) belly.

  1. Tilapia

Bright eyes and tightly attached, shiny scales.

  1. Sugpo (Prawns)

Translucent, shiny shells and firm bodies. Avoid any with black spots or an ammonia scent.

  1. Alimasag (Crab)

Buy them live and active! The shell should be moist and the underside firm to the touch.

  1. Galunggong

Look for a metallic sheen on the skin and full, clear eyes.

  1. Dalagang Bukid

Vibrant red and yellow skin; the flesh should be firm and elastic.

  1. Pompano

A smooth, golden-tinted skin with an intact, non-swollen belly.

  1. Lapu-Lapu

Bright pink gills and shiny, clear eyes. Avoid dull or "matte" skin.

  1. Salmon Steak

A vivid orange-pink hue. The flesh should be moist and held together, not separating.

  1. Blue Marlin

Look for a bright pinkish color and elastic texture. Avoid dry or brown spots.

How to Tell if Shrimp is Fresh

  • Firm Flesh: The body should be "snappy" and firm. Ensure the legs are still securely attached to the body.

  • Clear Shells: While not always perfect, avoid shrimp with distinct black spots or a slimy film.

  • Ocean Scent: Like fish, fresh shrimp should smell like clean sea water.

How to Tell if Clams, Oysters, or Mussels are Fresh

  • Intact Shells: Only buy shellfish with clean, crack-free shells.

  • The Tap Test: Shells should be tightly closed. If they are slightly open, tap them—if they don't snap shut immediately, they are no longer alive and should be discarded.

  • Plump Meats: For shucked oysters or clams, the meat should be plump and the liquid (liquor) should be clear or slightly milky, never cloudy or foul-smelling.

Why Freshness Matters

Fresh seafood isn't just about taste; it’s about nutrition and safety. Cooking "tired" seafood can lead to digestive issues and a ruined dinner. At FarmyHub, we prioritize speed and care, ensuring our premium, sustainably sourced catch goes from the water to your table at the peak of quality.