Fish and shellfish are an important part of a healthful diet. They contain high quality protein and other essential nutrients . . . can be low in saturated fat . . . and may contain omega-3 fatty acids. In fact, a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of fish and shellfish can contribute to heart health and children's growth and development.. . . and SafetyBut, as with any type of food, it's important to handle seafood safely in order to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Follow these basic food safety tips for buying, preparing, and storing fish and shellfish - and you and your family can safely enjoy the fine taste and good nutrition of seafood.Shopping for SeafoodBuying from a retailer who follows proper food handling practices helps assure that the seafood you buy is safe - and helps maintain the quality of the seafood too. Be sure to check out a market's seafood counter carefully to see whether the seller is practicing proper food handling techniques. Ask yourself: What is my general impression of this facility? Does it look and smell clean?Fresh Fish: How To Choose ItTo be sure the safety of seafood is being properly preserved, only buy fish that is refrigerated or properly iced. Fish should be displayed on a thick bed of fresh ice that is not melting, and preferably in a case or under some type of cover.Fish should smell fresh and mild, not fishy, sour, or ammonia-like.A fish's eyes should be clear and bulge a little (except for a few naturally cloudy-eyed fish types, such as walleye pike).Whole fish and filets should have firm, shiny flesh and bright red gills free from slime. Dull flesh could mean the fish is old. Note: Fish fillets that have been previously frozen may have lost some of their shine, but they are fine to eat.The flesh should spring back when pressed.Fish fillets should display no darkening or drying around the edges. They should have no green or yellowish discoloration, and should not appear dry or mushy in any areas.Storing SeafoodKeep It Safe Until You Eat ItPut seafood on ice or in the refrigerator or freezer soon after buying it, using these guidelines for safe storage:If seafood will be used within two days after purchase, store it in the refrigerator.If seafood won't be used within two days after purchase, wrap it tightly in moisture-proof freezer paper or foil to protect it from air leaks, and store it in the freezer.
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