6 tips to identify fresh fish and seafood

The Lent is the perfect time to enjoy a shrimp broth, a ceviche, or a cocktail, but we must be careful when going to the market. So today we give you 6 tips to identify fresh fish and seafood. Take note! Remember that, in the case of fish and seafood, it is a very delicate product, so we must buy it fresh and in good condition. If you find it hard to choose them, don't worry; here we explain how to know if they are in good condition.  You can also read: Prohibited foods during Lent6 tips to identify fresh fish and seafood Don't let them sell you a cat for a hare, and pay close attention when you go to La Viga and other large markets, as this is how to identify fresh fish and seafood. The best part? These tips will help make your dishes for Lent and Holy Week even more delicious.  According to the National Commission of Aquaculture and Fishing, we must pay close attention to the following factors:  1. CleanlinessIf the place where you are going to buy fish and seafood is NOT clean, run away from there. Cleanliness is essential when buying these types of ingredients.2. Firmness Fish and seafood should feel firm. You should press the fish and the skin and muscle should return to their state, according to the federal agency.3. Look at the eyesYou will know that the fish is fresh if the eyes are clear and slightly bulging. On the other hand, if they look milky or sunken, DO NOT buy the fish.See more: Everything you need to know for a sustainable Lent4. SmellYes, we know that fresh fish and seafood have a particular smell, but it should always be very similar to that of seawater. Under no circumstances should you buy these types of ingredients if they smell rotten or if the smell is foul.  5. Refrigeration Shrimp, fish fillets, octopus, and other ingredients should be refrigerated or on a thick layer of ice. If neither of these two is present, run away and protect your health.  6. How does it look? Your sense of sight will be key to identifying fresh fish and seafood, so consider characteristics such as: Shrimp: It should have a bright and transparent color.  Oysters and mussels: They should close when touched. Fish: The fillet should be slightly dry and have a darker color at the edges. DO NOT buy it if it has a green or yellow color! Furthermore, fish and seafood should not be slimy or sticky, as that means they are not fresh.  Now that you know how to identify fresh fish and seafood with these 5 tips, don't forget to put them to the test this Lent. For good measure, at kiwilimón we have the best recipes for making shrimp broth, grilled fish, shrimp cocktail with ketchup, fish tacos, empanadas, and much more.  Continue reading: The benefits of eating seafood during Lent*Photo: Engin Akyurt/Pexels