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How to Choose Fresh, Chemical-Free Ocean Fish: The Ultimate Guide

Seafood is delicious and nutritious, but choosing fresh, uncontaminated fish can be a daunting task.

20 April, 2024

If you live in inland areas, you do not have the opportunity to enjoy freshly caught fish. Fish transported from the sea always have different levels of freshness and are not equally likely to be contaminated with chemicals. Knowing how to choose fresh, non-toxic marine fish is something that everyone needs to know to ensure food safety for their families.

How to choose fresh marine fish

A fresh marine fish must first have a shiny body with firm flesh. The mouth of a fresh fish is usually closed. Meanwhile, a stale fish has no elasticity and its mouth is slightly open.

The eyes of a fresh fish are bright, slightly protruding, and tense. The gills of fresh marine fish must be pink or bright red. Conversely, a stale fish has cloudy, sunken eyes, and feels slimy or dry to the touch.

Do you know how to choose fresh marine fish that are free of toxic substances? (Photo: M.B)

Fresh marine fish have white, deeply recessed anuses and flat stomachs; while stale fish have pink or purple anuses that protrude; and distended bellies.

The scales of fresh marine fish are shiny, and when viewed in the sun will appear iridescent, clinging tightly to the body of the fish, without mucus or odor. In contrast, the scales of stale marine fish are dull, do not adhere to the body of the fish, and smell very fishy.

Fishy is the characteristic smell of fish, but if the fish is fresh, you will notice the characteristic flavor of seawater, while stale fish smell very unpleasant.

How to choose chemical-free marine fish

In order to save costs and maximize profits, many retailers import a lot of marine fish to sell and often marinate them with urea to keep them fresh for longer. Urea-marinated fish look fresh to the naked eye, with clear eyes and bright red gills, but they lack elasticity and when you press your finger into the fish’s body, it will leave an indentation.

Urea-marinated fish have a urine-like smell, which is different from the characteristic fishy smell of marine fish. When washed, the fish will be soft, and when fried or stewed, it will be easy to fall apart, the meat will be bland and not fragrant.

Therefore, to choose fresh, non-toxic marine fish, you should choose reputable seafood stores with clear origins.

How to choose fresh marine fish: The mouth of a fresh fish is usually closed, free of toxic substances? (Photo: Greendale)

Some types of marine fish are very good for health

Marine fish are rich in nutrients, especially omega 3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins. In particular, the following types of fish are very good for the body:

Salmon: Contains a lot of protein, vitamins D, B6, B12, selenium, phosphorus, potassium… Each serving of salmon contains more than 1,500mg of omega 3. Mackerel: Rich in unsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, which helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems. Mackerel also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce joint pain and stiffness. Sardines: Contain nearly 1,200mg of omega 3 fat in one serving. In addition, sardines are rich in vitamin D and calcium, which are essential for bones and muscles.

Tuna: Is a type of fish that is very rich in protein, DHA as well as vitamins A, B, B16, B12…, which help improve memory.

Cod: Is a type of white fish, rich in protein and fat, rich in vitamins A, C, calcium and essential minerals for the body…

Frequently asked questions

To avoid toxic fish, look out for signs of urea marination, a common practice to keep fish looking fresh. Urea-treated fish may appear fresh at first glance, but they lack elasticity and will leave an indentation when pressed. They also have a urine-like smell, unlike the characteristic fishy odor of marine fish. When cooked, the meat will be bland and fall apart easily.

Marine fish are rich in nutrients and offer various health benefits. They are an excellent source of omega 3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins. Specific types of marine fish, such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, tuna, and cod, are especially beneficial. These fish are known for their high protein content and abundance of vitamins and minerals, which can improve memory, reduce joint pain, and promote overall health.

To ensure the quality and safety of marine fish, it is recommended to purchase from reputable seafood stores with clear origins. Avoid retailers who may use urea or other chemicals to preserve their fish and always prioritize trusted sources for your seafood needs.