          
          
          
                           Buying Fresh Fish
          
               The form of fish is only one consideration in 
          purchasing fresh fish.  When buying a whole, drawn, or 
          dressed fish look for a fresh, mild odor and firm springy 
          flesh.  You can check the firmness of the flesh by pressing 
          your finger on it.  The flesh should not separate from the 
          bone.  Also, the skin should be iridescent and smooth.  
          Another tip in buying a whole fish is to examine its eyes.  
          They should be bright, clear and bulging.  The gills should 
          be intact, red, and free from residue.  All fresh fish 
          should be displayed and packaged on ice.
          
               When purchasing fresh fillets, steaks, or portions, 
          the first thing to check is odor.  It should be fresh and 
          mild.  Also, check the flesh.  It should be freshly cut 
          without traces of browning or drying around the edges.
          
          
