How to Know If Seafood Is Really Fresh (Before You Eat It)

Many Malaysians believe seafood is fresh as long as it’s placed on ice. Unfortunately, that assumption leads to disappointment — and sometimes health risks. Ice can slow spoilage, but it cannot reverse it. Knowing how to identify fresh seafood correctly is an essential food skill every diner should have.

Why Ice Is Not a Freshness Guarantee

Seafood sellers often rely on ice to create a visual illusion of freshness. While ice keeps seafood cold, it also masks warning signs like smell and texture breakdown. This is why appearance alone is unreliable.

Fresh Seafood Buying Guide: Insider Tests That Never Fail

The Insider Fresh Seafood Test Professionals Use

1. Check the Eyes

Fresh fish has clear, slightly bulging eyes.

Cloudy, sunken eyes indicate ageing — even if the fish looks well-displayed.

2. Look at the Skin

Fresh seafood has natural shine and tight skin.

Dull or dry skin suggests the fish has been sitting for too long.

3. Do the Press Test

Gently press the fish with your finger.

If the flesh springs back immediately, it’s fresh.

If it leaves a dent, the protein structure is already breaking down.

Real-Life Example

At many wet markets and restaurants, customers unknowingly choose fish based on size or price. Professionals, however, rely on firmness and eye clarity — not ice or lighting — to assess quality.

Conclusion

Fresh seafood should feel firm, look vibrant, and smell clean — never strong or fishy. By using these simple tests, Malaysians can confidently choose better seafood and avoid wasting money on poor-quality meals.

For more practical food hacks and insider dining knowledge, visit:

👉  https://linktr.ee/bestrestauranttoeat

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