bisnisrakyat.id -Fish is a food ingredient that is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, so it is beneficial for body health. However, the freshness of the fish greatly influences the quality and nutrients it contains. The following are several characteristics of fresh fish that you need to pay attention to so that you can ensure that the fish you buy is of good quality and safe for consumption.

1. Clear and Convex Eyes

Eyes are one of the main indicators in determining fish freshness. Fresh fish have clear, bright and convex eyes. Sunken or blurry eyes indicate that the fish has been stored for a long time and is no longer fresh. Healthy eyes will appear shiny and not cloudy or deflated. If the fish's eyes look blurry or sunken, you should reconsider buying it.

2. Gills are pink or bright red

The gills of fresh fish will be pink to bright red, indicating that the fish still had good blood flow before being caught. Gills that are dark, gray, or blackish indicate that the fish has started to rot. Apart from that, pay attention to whether the fish's gills are still wet or slimy. The gills of fresh fish are generally wet and have a rubbery texture, while the gills of old fish will appear dry or slimy with an unpleasant odor.

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3. Fresh sea aroma, not stinging fishy

Fresh fish has a light and fresh marine aroma, no fishy or sour smell. A strong fishy smell indicates that the decay process has begun. This aroma is very important, especially if the fish is stored for a long time or the room temperature is not suitable. When choosing fish, try to smell the aroma first. If you can still feel the aroma of the sea and don't have a sour smell, the fish is still fresh.

4. Chewy and elastic meat

The chewy and elastic texture of fish flesh is an indicator of freshness. If pressed, fresh fish flesh will return to its original shape. Avoid fish with meat that feels soft or too soft, because this indicates that the fish has been stored for a long time or has started to rot. You can also check the belly of the fish; Fresh fish has intact stomach flesh and does not tear easily.

5. Shiny skin with scales still attached

Fresh fish skin usually looks shiny and has a bright color. Fish scales that are still firmly attached to the skin are also a sign that the fish is still fresh. On the other hand, dull fish skin and scales that fall off easily indicate that the fish has started to rot. The skin color of fresh fish is also brighter and more alive.

6. Fins that are intact and not dry

Apart from the skin, pay attention to the condition of the fish's fins. Fresh fish has intact fins and is not dry. Fins that tear easily or look dry indicate that the fish is not fresh. Fresh fish fins will appear moist and have a bright color.

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Conclusion

Recognizing the characteristics of fresh fish is very important so that we can get the maximum nutritional benefits from fish. Clear eyes, bright red gills, fresh sea aroma, chewy flesh, shiny skin, and intact fins are some of the main indicators in choosing quality fish. Also make sure to buy fish from sellers who maintain cleanliness and store fish at appropriate temperatures. By choosing fresh fish, we can ensure that the food served to the family is not only delicious but also healthy.