Enjoying the bounty of Alaskan seafood is one of the best perks of living in the state. However, storing the delicate fish and maintaining its freshness is tricky — simply refrigerating it will not suffice. To keep your catch from spoiling as long as possible, there are a few simple rules you can follow, like knowing the right temperature and moisture for storage.

How to Keep Alaskan Seafood Fresh

1. Watch the Temperature 

Simply packing your fish in your fridge may seem okay, but it will have a noticeable impact after just one night. 38° Fahrenheit, the average temperature of a fridge, isn’t ideal for storing seafood. Instead, layer the fish on top of ice, using a barrier, such as a sandwich bag, in between, to lower its temperature to around 32° Fahrenheit. At this level, your food will keep its flavor and quality for two to three days.

2. Limit Moisture

Just as important as keeping the fish cold is keeping it dry. The bacteria that cause fish to spoil thrive in damp environments, so you’ll need to slow the process. After rinsing off your fillets, pat them dry with paper towels. This will remove excess moisture, helping to keep the seafood fresher for longer.

3. Freeze for Longer Storage

If you plan on enjoying your Alaskan seafood longer than two or three days from purchase, you’ll want to freeze the fish. There are several methods for doing this, but a common one is the double-wrap process. Cover each fillet individually in two separate layers of plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. Press out the excess air and don’t stack the fillets until they’re frozen solid.

You can also store your food in a block of ice. After cutting the fillets into smaller pieces, place them in a case, such as a baking pan, paper milk carton, or plastic storage container. Pour cold water over it and set it in the freezer until every piece is encased in ice. Remove the block of ice, wrap it in two layers of plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and put it in a bag in the freezer.

Alaska Sausage & Seafood has provided the best in smoked sausage and Alaskan seafood for over 50 years. From salmon to reindeer meat, the company’s wide array of delicacies will please any palate. For more information, call (907) 562-3636 today, or visit the website to learn more about the delicious food they offer.