KOMPAS.com – Mussels are a very popular type of seafood, comparable to shrimp and squid.
Apart from being easy to find in markets or supermarkets, shellfish are also often farmed so the price is relatively affordable.
However, choosing fresh shellfish is very important because shellfish that are not fresh can affect your health.
Also read: 3 ways to clean green mussels so they’re not fishy, boil them with ginger
How to choose fresh shellfish
Here’s a guide to distinguishing fresh shellfish from not:
1. Pay attention to smells
Fresh shellfish usually have a fresh, not overpowering sea aroma. On the other hand, shellfish that are not suitable for consumption tend to have a strong smell like sulfur.
However, the pungent odor can also be influenced by the storage location and environmental cleanliness of the shellfish.
If you smell a very unpleasant odor, you should avoid buying the shellfish.
2. Check the shellfish for mucus
Fresh shellfish tend to be firm and not slimy. Mucus on shellfish is usually an indicator that the shellfish are no longer fresh.
In addition, mussels that are still in their shells must have their shells tightly closed.
Also read: UGM Students Process Clam Shells into Cement, More Environmentally Friendly
Open shells or shells that feel crushed when massaged indicate the shellfish has gone bad.
Mussels that have been removed from their shells should also feel springy when held. If it feels soft or smells bad, avoid the shellfish.
3. Don’t be tempted by shells that look too clean
Freshly harvested live clams usually have a small amount of mud or seaweed on the shell, indicating freshness.
Illustration of uncooked oyster shells
If shellfish look too clean, they may have been stored for a long time or have been overly processed.
Additional tips
Storage way:
Shelled shellfish must be stored properly to keep them fresh. Unlike mussels that are still in their shells, shelled mussels require special attention during storage to prevent damage.
Clean the clams:
Make sure to wash the clams thoroughly before cooking, especially if they are cooked with the shells on. This helps maintain the moisture and quality of the shellfish.
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