Heading to the market to buy fresh fish can be exciting yet a bit intimidating. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed with all the choices and figuring out what’s truly fresh and what’s, well, not so fresh. Whether you’re a home cook looking to make a special seafood dish or a local restaurant owner who wants the best for your customers, knowing how to choose fresh fish is a skill worth mastering. Plus, if you’re in Melbourne, you’re in luck! Melbourne has fantastic seafood options thanks to quality suppliers like Foodbiz, a top choice among food distributors in Melbourne.
Let’s dive into the essentials for picking the freshest catch at the market.
- Look for Clear Eyes
The eyes are a huge tell when it comes to fish freshness. Fresh fish should have bright, clear eyes. They should look full, a bit like they’re “alive,” even though they’re not. Cloudy, sunken eyes mean the fish has been sitting for a while.
Eyes that look clear and almost glassy mean that fish is fresh and has been well-handled. So, if you’re ever in doubt, make eye contact.
- Check the Smell – Yes, Really!
Good fish should smell like the ocean—clean, slightly briny, and pleasant. It shouldn’t smell “fishy” in a bad way. If you’re noticing an overly strong fishy odor or something off, move on to another option.
In Melbourne, food distributors like Foodbiz maintain high standards for their seafood, so buying from a reliable source can make all the difference. But even the best suppliers need to deliver quickly to ensure freshness. Smelling the fish might feel a little awkward, but it’s worth it for quality assurance.
- Inspect the Skin and Scales
Fresh fish has shiny skin and firmly attached scales. The skin should almost look metallic, reflecting light with a vibrant appearance. Scales that are loose or flaky might mean the fish is a bit older. When the skin looks dull, it’s often a sign that the fish is past its prime.
A pro tip? If you’re buying fillets, look for a moist, glossy surface that isn’t dry or cracked. When you shop from trusted suppliers like Foodbiz, you can generally rely on them to offer fresh cuts, but it’s always good to double-check when you’re at the market.
- Feel the Fish – It Should Be Firm
Another key indicator is the fish’s texture. Fresh fish has a firm body, and if you press it lightly, it should bounce back. Soft or mushy flesh means the fish is either old or wasn’t stored properly.
When you’re at the Melbourne markets, don’t hesitate to ask the seller if you can touch the fish. They’re usually okay with it because they know quality matters.
- Gills Should Be Bright Red or Pink
If you’re buying a whole fish, check the gills. Fresh fish have bright red or pink gills, indicating good blood flow and freshness. Brown or faded gills are a major sign that the fish is on its way out.
In addition to fresh gills, there should be a slight “ocean” scent when you lift the gills for a closer look. Quality Melbourne food wholesalers, like Foodbiz, work directly with reliable seafood suppliers to ensure their fish is as fresh as possible, so you have fewer worries when buying from them.
- Ask Questions!
If you’re unsure, don’t be afraid to ask the fishmonger a few questions. Here are some ideas:
“When was this fish caught?”
“Where did it come from?”
“How was it stored?”
Most seafood suppliers and fishmongers are passionate about their products and will be happy to tell you. If they’re vague or evasive, it might be a red flag. Building a good relationship with your local supplier can also help ensure you get the freshest catch each time.
- Know What’s In Season
Certain fish are fresher depending on the season, so knowing what’s in season can help you make better choices. Melbourne has excellent seafood markets that work closely with food distributors like Foodbiz to provide seasonal options. When you shop in-season, not only do you get fresher fish, but you’ll also find better prices and support sustainable practices.
- Buy from Trusted Sources like Foodbiz
For restaurant owners, chefs, or anyone looking to buy seafood in bulk, a reliable food distributor is essential. Foodbiz is one of the best food distributors in Melbourne, known for their high-quality selection of fresh fish and seafood. They work closely with local seafood suppliers, ensuring that their products are fresh, carefully handled, and ethically sourced. For larger orders, Foodbiz also offers delivery and services tailored for restaurants and food businesses across Melbourne. By partnering with a trusted distributor, you can skip the guesswork and get quality products directly.
Wrapping It Up: Trust Your Senses & Source Wisely
Choosing fresh fish doesn’t have to be complicated. Trust your senses, ask questions, and buy from reputable sources. Whether you’re a home chef or looking for reliable food suppliers for your restaurant, these simple tips can help you pick the best of the catch. And if you’re in Melbourne, partnering with trusted distributors like Foodbiz will make a world of difference in your kitchen.
So, next time you head to the market, you’re all set to pick fresh fish like a pro.