How to Choose and Store Fresh Seafood at Home

How to Choose and Store Fresh Seafood at Home

Bringing home seafood is a treat, but knowing how to choose the best quality and store it properly makes all the difference in taste and safety. At Red Anchor Seafood, we want every customer to enjoy seafood at its freshest, so here are our top tips for making the most of your next purchase.

Choosing the Freshest Seafood

Look and Smell

Fish: Fresh fish should have clear, bright eyes and shiny, moist skin. The flesh should be firm to the touch and bounce back when pressed. Avoid fish that looks dull, has discoloured patches, or smells overly “fishy”—fresh fish should have a mild, clean scent.

Shellfish: Live shellfish (like mussels or clams) should have tightly closed shells or close when tapped. Avoid any with cracked shells or that don’t close when handled. Fresh prawns and scallops should appear translucent and smell like the sea.

Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask your fishmonger when the seafood arrived and where it was sourced. At Red Anchor Seafood, we’re always happy to share information about our products’ origins and freshness.

Storing Seafood at Home

Refrigeration

Fresh Fish: Store in the coldest part of your fridge, ideally on a plate or tray covered with a damp cloth or cling film. Use within 1–2 days for best quality.

Shellfish: Keep live shellfish in a bowl covered with a damp cloth (not submerged in water) and use within 24 hours.

Cooked Seafood: Store in a sealed container and consume within 2 days.

Freezing

If you’re not using seafood right away, freezing is a great option. Wrap fish tightly in cling film or foil and place in a freezer bag. Label with the date and use within three months for the best flavour.

For shellfish, clean and prepare before freezing. Some shellfish, like prawns, can be frozen raw or cooked.

Thawing

Thaw frozen seafood in the fridge overnight or, for a quicker option, place it in a sealed bag under cold running water. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.

Quick Recipe Ideas

Pan-Seared Fish Fillets: Season with salt, pepper, and lemon, then cook in a hot pan for a few minutes on each side.

Steamed Mussels: Simmer with garlic, white wine, and herbs for a flavourful, easy meal.

Grilled Prawns: Marinate in olive oil, garlic, and chilli, then grill for a delicious appetiser.

With these simple tips, you can enjoy the freshest, most flavourful seafood at home every time. At Red Anchor Seafood, we’re always here to help you select the perfect catch and answer any questions about storage or preparation. Happy cooking!