The 6 Unforgivable Signs: Do Not Buy, Do Not Eat
If you see even one of these signs, walk away. Your health is worth more than the cost of the fish.
1. The Smell Test Fails: Sour, Ammonia, or Rancid Odor
This is the most reliable indicator. Fresh fish smells of the sea. Spoiled fish smells sour, overwhelmingly « fishy, » or like pungent ammonia. Trust your nose—it’s your best detector. If it makes you wince, it’s gone.
2. Eyes Are Cloudy, Milky, or Sunken (Whole Fish)
The eyes are windows to freshness. Cloudy, gray, milky, or sunken eyes are a dead giveaway that the fish is old and has been sitting too long. Fresh eyes are clear and protruding.
3. The Flesh is Mushy or Leaves a Fingerprint
Gently press the flesh with your finger (or ask the fishmonger to). If it feels soft, mushy, or leaves a lasting dent, the proteins are breaking down. Fresh fish is firm and elastic.
