Learn the insider secrets to selecting the freshest seafood at wet markets and supermarkets. From checking eyes and gills to understanding the fresh vs frozen debate.
Why Freshness Matters
When it comes to seafood, freshness isn't just about taste—it's about safety and nutrition. Fresh seafood contains higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and essential vitamins that degrade over time. According to food safety experts, seafood is one of the most perishable foods, and consuming stale seafood can lead to foodborne illnesses.
In the Philippines, where seafood is a dietary staple, knowing how to select fresh catches can save you money and ensure your family enjoys the best quality meals. At Crabby N' Shrimp in San Mateo, Rizal, we source our seafood daily to guarantee freshness for our customers across Metro Manila.
The Fresh vs Frozen Debate
One of the most common questions we get is: "Is fresh seafood always better than frozen?"
The answer might surprise you. According to discussions among culinary experts, flash-frozen seafood can actually be fresher than "fresh" seafood at your local market. Here's why:
- Flash freezing happens within hours of the catch, preserving nutrients and texture
- "Fresh" fish at supermarkets may have been sitting on ice for 5-7 days
- Quality frozen seafood maintains its nutritional value for months when stored properly
However, there's a key distinction: locally-sourced fresh seafood from trusted suppliers like Crabby N' Shrimp offers the best of both worlds—caught fresh and delivered to you within 24-48 hours.
When to Choose Fresh:
- Buying from a trusted local supplier
- Same-day consumption planned
- You can verify the source
When Frozen is Fine:
- No reliable fresh source nearby
- Buying specialty items not locally available
- Meal prepping for the week
How to Identify Fresh Fish
Here's what experienced fishmongers and Reddit communities recommend checking:
The Eye Test
- Fresh: Clear, bright, bulging eyes
- Avoid: Cloudy, sunken, or gray eyes
The Gill Check
- Fresh: Bright red or pink gills
- Avoid: Brown, gray, or slimy gills
The Smell Test
- Fresh: Mild, ocean-like smell (like seaweed)
- Avoid: Strong "fishy" or ammonia odor
The Touch Test
- Fresh: Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Avoid: Soft, mushy flesh that leaves an indent
The Scale Test
- Fresh: Shiny, tightly attached scales
- Avoid: Dull, easily falling scales
Buying Fresh Shrimp (Hipon)
Shrimp is one of the most popular seafood items in Filipino cuisine, from sinigang na hipon to garlic butter shrimp. Here's how to select the best:
Fresh Shrimp Indicators:
- Shell: Translucent and firm, not yellowing
- Smell: Fresh, slightly salty ocean scent
- Texture: Firm body, no sliminess
- Head: Firmly attached (if buying whole)
- Color: Natural gray-green, not pink (unless cooked)
Shrimp Grades by Size:
| Local Term | Count per Kilo | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Jumbo | 10-15 pcs | Grilling, Boiling |
| Large | 16-25 pcs | Garlic Butter, Sinigang |
| Medium | 26-40 pcs | Stir-fry, Pancit |
| Small | 41-60 pcs | Tempura, Lumpia |
Selecting Quality Crabs (Alimango)
Mud crabs (alimango) are prized in Filipino cuisine, but selecting a good one requires skill:
Live Crab Selection Tips:
- Activity Level: Active crabs = fresher crabs
- Weight: Should feel heavy for its size (indicates meat fullness)
- Shell Hardness: Hard shell means fully developed meat
- Claw Check: Both claws intact indicates good health
- Underside Color: Creamy white, not discolored
Male vs Female Crabs:
- Male (Lalaki): More meat, stronger flavor
- Female (Babae): Contains aligue (crab fat), richer taste
Pro Tip: At Crabby N' Shrimp, we hand-select each crab and can recommend based on your recipe needs.
Wet Market vs Supermarket: Price Comparison
Based on our research and community feedback from Filipino home cooks:
| Seafood Item | Wet Market (per kg) | Supermarket (per kg) | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shrimp (Large) | ₱550-650 | ₱750-900 | 30-40% |
| Alimango | ₱800-1000 | ₱1200-1500 | 25-35% |
| Bangus | ₱180-220 | ₱280-350 | 35-40% |
| Tilapia | ₱120-150 | ₱180-220 | 30-35% |
| Lobster | ₱1800-2200 | ₱2800-3500 | 35-40% |
Why Wet Markets Are Cheaper:
- Lower overhead costs
- Direct from fishermen/suppliers
- No packaging/branding costs
- Negotiable prices
Why Some Choose Supermarkets:
- Air-conditioned comfort
- Consistent pricing
- Pre-cleaned/filleted options
- Returns/refund policies
Proper Storage Tips
Once you've selected your fresh seafood, proper storage is crucial:
Refrigerator Storage (1-2 days):
- Rinse seafood in cold water
- Pat dry with paper towels
- Place in airtight container
- Store in coldest part of fridge
- Place ice on top if possible
Freezer Storage (2-3 months):
- Clean and portion seafood
- Remove as much air as possible
- Use freezer-safe bags
- Label with date
- Store at -18°C or below
Thawing Best Practices:
- Best: Overnight in refrigerator
- Quick: Cold water bath (sealed bag)
- Avoid: Room temperature thawing
- Never: Hot water or microwave for raw seafood
Ready to taste the difference fresh seafood makes? Visit Crabby N' Shrimp at B3 L12 Charrieville 3, San Mateo, Rizal, or call us at +63 906 009 7942 for fresh seafood delivery across Metro Manila!
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Crabby N' Shrimp Team
Your trusted source for premium fresh seafood in San Mateo, Rizal. We're passionate about bringing the freshest catches to families and businesses across Metro Manila.
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