Expiration & Storage Tips
When does sea bass expire?
Unopened sea bass in the high quality vacuum-sealed packaging from the store can last for about 1-2 days in the fridge. Often the sell-by date can be a good indicator, but err on the side of caution if the fish has been stored in the supermarket for some time before purchase. Once opened or if it's a freshly caught fish, it generally stays good for only a day. The key is to keep it as cold as possible without freezing it, unless you plan to freeze for further use. If frozen at optimal conditions, sea bass can last up to 6-9 months.
How do you tell if sea bass is bad?
Fresh sea bass should have a mild sea aroma, moist flesh, and bright, clear eyes if the head is still intact. Once the fish has gone bad, it's pretty easy to tell. Firstly, there will be a strong fishy smell, a definite sign that your fish is past its prime. The color should be bright and shiny. If it has started to dull and the eyes look cloudy, it's time to throw it away. Fresh sea bass flesh is firm but bounces back when you press the flesh. If it feels mushy or leaves an imprint, the fish is not fresh.
Tips for storing sea bass to extend shelf life
• Always store your sea bass in the coldest part of your refrigerator, usually in the back on the bottom shelf.
• If you can, set your refrigerator to the coldest setting, but be careful not to freeze the fish.
• To further improve the shelf life, store fish in a shallow dish, wrapped in plastic or foil, and then packed with crushed ice.
• If you plan to freeze your sea bass, first clean and pat it dry, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it as quickly as possible.
• When defrosting sea bass, do so slowly in the refrigerator. Avoid using the microwave or hot water as it can cook the fish and destroy the texture and flavor.