How to Choose the Freshest Seafood Every Time

When shopping for seafood, selecting the freshest catch ensures a delicious meal. Whether you’re looking to buy fresh prawns Gold Coast or searching for premium Burleigh Heads seafood, knowing what to look for will help you bring home the best quality. Follow these simple tips to make the right choice.

Look at the Eyes and Skin

Fresh fish should have bright, clear eyes—not cloudy or sunken. The skin should appear shiny and metallic, as if the fish is still in the water. Any dullness may indicate that it's past its prime.

Check for Firmness

When pressed, fresh fish should have firm, springy flesh. If it leaves an indentation or feels mushy, it may not be the best choice. This is especially important for fillets, where tightly bound flesh ensures better texture when cooked.

Smell the Fish

A fresh catch has a light, ocean-like scent—clean and briny. If the fish smells too strong or has an ammonia-like odor, it’s best to avoid it. A reputable seafood market will have a fresh, mild aroma rather than a strong fishy smell.

Examine the Gills

For whole fish, check the gills. They should be reddish-pink and slightly moist. Brown, grey, or dry gills suggest the fish has been sitting out too long.

Assess Shellfish Quality

When buying shellfish like oysters, clams, or mussels, look for tightly closed shells. Open shells may indicate the shellfish is no longer fresh. If you’re after the best prawns Gold Coast, choose ones that are plump, firm, and vibrant in color, with intact shells and no dark spots.

Ask About the Source

Always ask where the seafood comes from and when it was delivered. Locally caught seafood, such as Burleigh Heads seafood, often has a shorter travel time, ensuring optimal freshness and flavor.

Bringing Home the Best Seafood

By following these simple checks—examining the eyes, gills, smell, and texture—you can confidently choose the freshest seafood. Shopping at trusted markets ensures you get top-quality seafood every time, whether it’s whole fish, fillets, or the freshest prawns