Shipping Fresh Tilapia Fish FAQ

Prime Fresh Handling has learned many things in our years of working in seafood logistics. We have also found how important it is for us to share our knowledge with our partners and readers. Among the different types of seafood we have experienced, fresh tilapia fish is a big one. 

Much like any other fish, tilapia needs to be kept fresh and cold during transportation to avoid the risk of it going bad before reaching its final destination. Keep reading below to see some of the most frequently asked questions about tilapia and our answers.

What Is Tilapia?

Tilapia is a farm-raised fish, meaning there are no wild tilapia. They are produced from aquaculture and raised in freshwater systems where they feed on algae. It has become one of the most consumed fish in the United States today. 

Fresh tilapia fish is a mild white fish that is easy to prepare and cook, making it an attractive dinner option for many people. There are also some health benefits to consuming this type of fish. It is low in calories and fat while also being high in protein. 

How Long Does Tilapia Last In the Fridge?

This all depends on the storage conditions. Even during the transportation process, tilapia needs to always be refrigerated. Using a cold chain management process will ensure that all the proper technologies are used to keep the fish fresh. 

Once it reaches its final destination, tilapia has about a 1 to 2-day shelf life from its ‘sell-by date.’ Keeping it inside its original packaging can help maximize its shelf life. If tilapia is left out or at room temperature, it is important to know that bacteria can grow rapidly between 40 degrees and 140 degrees Fahrenheit. It should be discarded if the fish is left out for more than two hours at room temperature. 

How to Know if Tilapia Is Bad?

If you receive your tilapia and are concerned it might have gone bad, here are a few tips to tell if it is still fresh or not:

• Tip #1: The flesh should be firm and shiny, and it should bounce back if it is touched. If it is bad, it will look dull. 
• Tip #2: The fish should NOT smell bad, but it should have a mild scent. It is probably bad if there is a strong fishy or sour smell.
• Tip #3: Check the eyes because their eyes will tell you a lot. If they are bulging, shiny, and clear, then it is fresh. If the eyes are sunken in, then it suggests that the fish is bad or old. 
• Tip #4: Look at the gills. The gills should be a brighter pink and slightly wet but not slimy. 
• Tip #5: Any discoloration of the skin is bad! Signs of brown or yellowish slime around the edges or a sponge-like texture mean that the fish is old and has gone bad. 

Contact Prime Fresh Handling if you have any further questions about tilapia or any other of the industries we work in.