Eat Seafood Challenge! Celebrate National Seafood Month

buying seafoodNara Lee, Dietetic Intern C.W. Bill Young VA Healthcare System

October is right around the corner and a time to celebrate seafood. “Eat seafood twice a week” is the current advice from a number of health organizations and the government. The reasons are many and include the high quality protein, vitamins and minerals it contains along with the high level of omega 3 fatty acids. There is a significant amount of scientific evidence that suggests these fats may play a role in reducing the risk of heart disease. Other relationships between omega 3 fatty acids and conditions such as cancer, arthritis and asthma are currently being studied as well.

When buying seafood, select with care as it is more perishable then many food items. Some tips to consider when buying and handling seafood include the following:
• Verify product freshness and purchase from trusted retailers
• Do not purchase seafood with a strong “fishy odor”
• Store seafood in the refrigerator below 40°F or in the freezer below 0°F.
• Keep raw and cooked seafood separate to avoid cross–contamination
• Thaw in refrigerator
• Clean and sanitize surfaces before and after preparation
• Cook seafood to a minimum of 145°F for 15 seconds,
Other tips can be found at http://seafoodhealthfacts.org/pdf/seafood-safety-pc-handling.pdf
From shrimp tacos to salmon kebabs, finding new ways to serve seafood can also bring variety and flavor to your meals. For mouthwatering recipes sure to please any palate, visit the Fresh from Florida seafood recipe pages at
http://www.freshfromflorida.com/Recipes/Seafood
For more information on seafood check out
http://seafoodhealthfacts.org/

0


Posted: September 21, 2015


Category: Natural Resources



Subscribe For More Great Content

IFAS Blogs Categories