Seafood Buying Guides

Seafood Buying Guides

Buying Seafood

How can I identify fresh seafood?

“Fresh” seafood should smell clean and mild, never strongly fishy, sour, or ammonia-like.

Is frozen seafood a good choice?

Frozen seafood can be excellent. Look for intact packaging, minimal ice crystals, and clear species and origin information.

What do shrimp count sizes mean?

Shrimp counts indicate size: smaller numbers mean larger shrimp. For example, 16/20 is larger than 31/40.

How should I store seafood?

Keep seafood refrigerated at 40°F or below, and use fresh seafood within one to two days.

What should I compare when buying seafood?

Compare species, cut, size, harvest method, origin, storage condition, and price—not price alone.