Tips for Storing Seafood

CHEF’S ADVICE

Don’t leave your seafood in its plastic packaging

SEAFOOD STORING TIPS

  • Purchased seafood is generally packed in a plastic bag, for the best and freshest results always remove your seafood from the plastic as soon as you get it. Once removed, rinse your seafood under cold water. Then strain the water and pat dry the seafood. Place your seafood on a plate (you can add a pinch of salt if you like), cover, and leave it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it. Repeat this process every 48 hours.
  • Sometimes fish will smell when you remove it from its plastic bag. This is because the fish juice gathers bacteria first. Before discarding based on smell, rinse the seafood first. If after rinsing it is still off-smelling then discard.
  • Contrary to popular opinion, you CAN refreeze seafood. However, refreezing will affect the moisture of the product so the next time you defrost it, your seafood is likely to be dryer.
  • Vacuum-packing fresh seafood does NOT extend its best before date. Vacuum-packing is good for freezing produce as it helps protect items from drying out, but it does not prevent them from going off.
Other

Cooking Tips