Buying Shellfish

Lobsters and Crabs If you are buying live, choose an active specimen that feels heavy for its size. If buying cooked, check that the shell is undamaged and the claws intact. The smell should be fresh and not strong.

Mussels, Clams and Cockles Avoid those that are excessively covered in mud or barnacles, or that appear to be cracked or damaged. Discard any that remain open when tapped.

Scallops These are most often sold opened, cleaned and trimmed rather than in their closed shells. Check that they smell sweet; If so, they are fresh. The flesh of fresh scallops is slightly grey and translucent, not perfectly white.