collaborative post | There’s nothing quite like the exquisite taste of fresh seafood to tantalise your taste buds. The succulent flavours and delicate textures of fresh catches from the sea can turn an ordinary meal into a gourmet experience.
But, to fully enjoy seafood, it’s crucial that you know how to store them properly. In this guide, we’ll explore the best practices for storing fresh seafood to extend its shelf life, ensuring you can enjoy the finest catches for longer periods. Make sure to keep these tips in mind when you turn to fresh seafood delivery from Manettas.
1. Keep It Cold
The key to preserving the freshness of your seafood is to keep it cold. Fresh seafood should be stored at a temperature range of 0°C to 3°C (32°F to 38°F). Ensure your refrigerator maintains this temperature consistently.
2. Use an Airtight Container
To prevent the spread of odours and to keep your seafood moist, store it in an airtight container. This will also help protect it from any potential contaminants in your refrigerator.
3. Use Freshness Indicators
When purchasing fresh seafood, look for freshness indicators, such as clear and moist eyes, shiny skin and a mild ocean-like scent. Avoid seafood with a strong, fishy odour or signs of discolouration.
4. Separate and Label
If you plan to store different types of seafood together, ensure they are properly separated to prevent cross-contamination. Label containers with the purchase date to keep track of freshness.
5. Use Ice Packs or Ice Beds
Place a tray of ice packs or ice beds at the bottom of the container before placing your seafood on top. This helps maintain the desired temperature and keeps your seafood fresh.
6. Store Seafood Uncooked
Whenever possible, store seafood in its uncooked state. Cooking seafood before storing it can reduce its shelf life.
7. Avoid Overcrowding
Give your fresh seafood some space. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooling and reduce the shelf life of your seafood.
8. Regularly Check and Rotate
Check your seafood regularly and use the first-in, first-out principle. This ensures you consume the oldest seafood first, maintaining freshness.
9. Freeze If Necessary
If you can’t consume your fresh seafood within a few days, consider freezing it. Vacuum-seal the seafood to prevent freezer burn and extend its shelf life for several months.
10. Thaw Carefully
When you’re ready to enjoy your fresh seafood, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid using hot water, as it can negatively impact the texture and flavour.
11. Be Mindful of Shelf Life
Different types of seafood have varying shelf lives. Generally, shellfish like shrimp and crab have a shorter shelf life than white fish or salmon.
12. Don’t Forget the Scales and Shells
If you purchase whole fish, remove scales and clean out the entrails before storing it. This helps maintain freshness and prevents unpleasant odours.
By following our simple storage guidelines, you can maximise the shelf life of your fresh seafood, ensuring every meal is a delectable seafood feast. Whether it’s succulent prawns, flaky salmon or tender calamari, you can savour the freshness of the ocean with every bite.
Very important tips! 🙂