Fresh seafood is a crowd-pleaser any time of year, whether you enjoy shellfish like shrimp, crab, and crawfish or finfish like snapper. Shopping at a fresh seafood market ensures the ingredients’ quality, especially when they are locally caught. Although storing fresh fish at home can be tricky, learning the proper packing techniques is worthwhile. These steps will preserve the natural, briny flavor you expect from your seafood.

Refrigerating Fish 

If you’re planning to cook the seafood within a day or two, store it in the original wrapper in the refrigerator. Try not to crowd the shelf—if the fish touches unwashed produce or another protein, it can lead to cross-contamination. Leaving plenty of space around the package will also help keep air circulating, so the meat stays fresh.

Freezing Fish 

If you want to freeze fresh seafood, the storage process is a bit different. While air is crucial for fish in the fridge, the key to storing fresh seafood in the freezer is to keep as much air out as possible. Gently wrap the seafood in moisture-proof freezer paper, then add at least one layer of sturdy foil to ensure there are no air leaks. 

Storing Shellfish

The first step to storing live shellfish is to line a container with clean, damp cloths. Avoid airtight containers, as they can cause the shellfish to go bad quickly. Once you’re ready to cook, discard any of the fish that have cracked or died during storage. If you’re unsure whether a mollusk, such as an oyster, has died, tap on the shell. If the creature closes up, it’s still alive and safe to cook. If it doesn’t respond, discard it to prevent illness.

If you’re looking for the best selection of fresh seafood in Bon Secour, AL, then look no further than Billy’s Seafood. Their team of experienced fishermen and store staff will guide you through their vast selection, so you find something delicious. Customers who can’t make it to the seafood market in person can take advantage of online ordering. For more information, visit them online or call (251) 949-6288.