With any type of raw or live food, it is important to be careful and educated when buying them. This same principle applies to buying live lobster. With the added option of purchasing lobster online, the task can be daunting and even intimidating. This is why it is important to know what you should be looking out for when choosing lobster.
Buying Tips
When you are buying lobster or crawfish, make sure that they are lively and vigorous. You must observe the reaction of the lobster once the fishmonger picks them out of the tank. Once the lobster contracts, then that is a good sign. On the other hand, if the lobster looks sluggish or lethargic, it’s probably better you get them from a different store. Pay attention to the following details:
- Pick them up. If they feel heavy for their size, then that is a good sign.
- Tentacles, heads, shells, and flesh must be firm and intact.
- Flesh or shells must be lustrous and brightly colored.
- They must not have any discoloration, especially at their joints.
- They should have a pleasantly fresh sea smell.
When you buy seafood, make sure you keep it cold. Make use of a chiller bag, esky, or you can ask the seller to pack some ice along with your purchase. This brings us to the next chapter: Storage.
Storage Tips
Before you put your freshly bought live lobster or crawfish in the refrigerator, it is important that you follow these tips first:
- Scale, clean, and gut lobster. Place them on tray, plate or a container with a lid. Cover a damp cloth and with a plastic wrap or lid. Store in coldest part of fridge. Use in no more than 3 days.
- Dead or alive crustaceans should be consumed the soonest time possible after they have been purchased.
- If placing inside the freezer, they must be placed in an airtight freezer bag, with the air extracted as much as possible. Store at -18°C or less and they can last up to 3 months. Broadly, the same restrictions as to shrimp apply.