Before cooking, always check seafood for freshness. Fresh seafood should feel firm, moist, and have a mild ocean-like smell. If the seafood feels overly slimy, sticky, or has a strong unpleasant odor, it may no longer be safe to consume and should be avoided.

Once seafood has been thawed, it should not be refrozen. Refreezing can significantly affect texture, taste, and quality. It is always recommended to thaw only the required quantity for use.

If immediate refrigeration is not available, seafood can be stored over crushed ice to maintain freshness temporarily. Keeping seafood cold slows bacterial growth and helps preserve its quality until it is properly refrigerated or cooked.

Maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen is crucial when handling seafood. Always sanitize surfaces, utensils, and sinks after use. Proper hygiene practices reduce the risk of contamination and ensure safe food preparation.

Proper freezing helps preserve the quality of seafood for extended periods. Seafood should be stored at -18?C or below to maintain freshness. When thawing, always defrost seafood in the refrigerator rather than at room temperature to ensure safety. Avoid repeated freezing and thawing, as it can damage texture and reduce flavor. For quicker thawing, sealed seafood packs can be placed in cold water, but hot water should never be used.