Shrimp is one of the most consumed seafood in Portugal, a common presence in both simple meals and special moments. Its popularity is due to its delicate flavor and versatility in the kitchen, but also to its ease of preparation. However, to guarantee a good experience at the table, it is essential to choose the product carefully.
According to Pingo Doce, the analysis should begin right at the moment of purchase. Checking the freshness, smell and texture of the shrimp is crucial to understanding whether it is suitable for consumption. An informed choice is the first step to enjoying this seafood in a safe and tasty way.
Freshness: the first sign to look out for
Freshness is the most important factor when it comes to seafood. Pingo Doce recommends that, when purchasing cooked shrimp, the consumer makes sure that the aroma is mild and natural, without any intense or unpleasant smell. The shrimp must be fully cooked, with a uniform pink color, without spots or discolored areas.
Another aspect to consider is the texture. Fresh shrimp should have a clean, firm, non-sticky surface. These simple signs allow you to easily identify whether the product is in good condition and help to avoid the risk of contamination or food poisoning.
Texture and appearance: the details that make the difference
Texture is an excellent indicator of shrimp quality. According to Pingo Doce, the ideal shrimp should be consistent to the touch and maintain its shape even after peeling. A texture that is too soft or crumbly may mean that the product is no longer fresh.
The visual appearance also deserves attention. The shrimp must have a natural shine and a homogeneous color, without dry or whitish areas. According to Pingo Doce, cooked shrimp go through a rigorous quality control process, where any defect is enough to reject the batch. This ensures that the consumer takes home a reliable product.
Transport and conservation: care that makes a difference
Shrimp care doesn’t end at the store. Transport is a crucial phase to preserve its properties and avoid changes in texture or flavor. Pingo Doce advises the use of isothermal bags or thermal bags, especially on hot days, to keep the temperature stable until it reaches the refrigerator.
At home, conservation must be done according to the type of product. Fresh or cooked shrimp should be stored in the coldest part of the refrigerator, while frozen shrimp should remain in the freezer until used. Ideally, fresh shrimp should be consumed within a day or two, ensuring it maintains flavor and food safety.
Fresh seafood: how to recognize signs of vitality
In the case of live seafood, observing signs of movement is essential to assess freshness. Mussels and clams must react to touch by closing their shells, while crabs and lobsters demonstrate vitality through the movement of their legs. These small gestures indicate that the seafood is in good condition for consumption.
Pingo Doce also highlights that, in lobsters, the curling of the tail is a clear sign of freshness. Knowing how to recognize these indicators is essential to ensure that you take home a quality product, reducing the risk of unpleasant surprises at meal time.
Sefood safety: the last step before the table
Food safety is key when it comes to seafood and fish. Maintaining good purchasing, transportation and conservation practices is essential to prevent contamination. Regardless of whether the shrimp is fresh, cooked or frozen, hygiene and temperature rules must always be respected.
According to , following these simple recommendations is the best way to guarantee a safe and enjoyable meal. Taking care of the way the shrimp is chosen, stored and prepared makes all the difference in the experience at the table, allowing you to enjoy one of the most appreciated seafood by the Portuguese with total confidence.
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