How to Identify Fresh Fish — A Buyer's Guide for Kozhikode
Buying fish in Kozhikode — whether at the market or ordering online — requires knowing what to look for. Fresh fish looks, smells and feels very different from fish that has sat too long. Here is exactly what to check.
5 Signs of Fresh Fish
1. Eyes — Clear and Bulging
The eyes of fresh fish should be clear, bright and slightly bulging outward. Cloudy, sunken or grey eyes are a sign the fish has been dead for too long.
2. Gills — Bright Red
Lift the gill cover and check the colour. Fresh fish gills are vivid red to deep pink. Brown, grey or slimy gills indicate the fish is not fresh.
3. Smell — Sea-like, Not Fishy
Fresh fish smells of the sea — clean, slightly briny. A strong "fishy" or sour smell means the fish has begun to spoil. If it smells of ammonia, do not buy it.
4. Skin — Firm and Moist
The skin should be firm, moist and have a natural sheen. Scales should be tightly attached and the body should spring back when pressed.
5. Flesh — Firm, Not Mushy
Press the flesh with your finger. Fresh fish will spring back immediately. If the indentation stays, the fish is starting to break down.
Fresh Fish vs Stale Fish — Quick Comparison
| Feature | Fresh Fish | Stale Fish |
|---|---|---|
| Eyes | Clear, bulging | Cloudy, sunken |
| Gills | Bright red | Brown or grey |
| Smell | Clean, sea-like | Strong, ammonia |
| Flesh | Firm, springs back | Soft, indented |
| Skin | Shiny, scales intact | Dull, scales loose |
Why Onsup Fresh Fish Is Always Fresh
- •All fish is sourced from local Kozhikode fish markets and harbour every morning.
- •Orders are processed the same day — no overnight storage.
- •Fish is cleaned and packed only after your order is confirmed.
- •WhatsApp order confirmation includes what fish is available that day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know the fish from Onsup is fresh?
All Onsup Fresh deliveries use same-day morning stock. Fish is cleaned and packed after order confirmation. You can also ask about the day's catch on WhatsApp before ordering.
What should fresh fish smell like?
Fresh fish should smell of clean seawater or the ocean — mildly briny. Any strong 'fishy' or sour smell indicates the fish is not fresh.
Order fresh fish or meat for this recipe from Onsup Fresh — cleaned, cut & delivered to your door in Kozhikode.