Fresh vs. Frozen Seafood: Why Fresh Seafood Is Better

Some argue that frozen seafood is more accessible, cost-effective, and profitable from a business perspective. Still, Nordic Catch doesn't see it that way. We believe in fresh seafood delivered to your door so you can enjoy the highest-quality seafood that has never been frozen.

But why is fresh seafood better than frozen seafood? Let's dive into the reasons.

Reasons Fresh Seafood Is Better Than Frozen Seafood

Fresh seafood offers numerous advantages over frozen seafood regarding how you can prepare and enjoy it.

Superior Taste & Texture

Fresh seafood tastes better. The flavors are more vibrant, and the texture is more delicate. Although frozen seafood can preserve its quality through flash freezing, it can slightly alter the taste and texture. With Nordic Catch, you can savor the natural, unadulterated flavors of the sea.

Higher Nutritional Value

Did you know that fresh seafood contains more nutrients than frozen seafood? While fresh and frozen fish retain most of their nutritional value, some water-soluble vitamins may be lost during the thawing process of frozen fish. By choosing our fresh seafood, you're nourishing your body with the best nature has to offer.

Reduced Risk of Contamination

Fresh seafood is less likely to be contaminated than improperly handled frozen seafood. Nordic Catch handles its fresh seafood with the utmost care, and we ensure it undergoes rigorous quality control measures, minimizing the risk of contamination.

Versatility in Cooking

When you have fresh seafood, the cooking possibilities are endless. When it comes to fresh fish from Iceland, you can grill, bake, sauté, or even enjoy it raw in sushi. Fresh seafood's natural moisture and delicate texture allow for a broader range of cooking techniques and flavors. We hope to help you unleash your culinary creativity by providing the freshest ingredients.

Environmental Sustainability

Choosing fresh seafood over frozen seafood also has environmental benefits. Nordic Catch uses sustainable fishing practices and methods to reduce the environmental impact of delivering fresh seafood, thus supporting a healthier planet.

Fresh Seafood 101

Many things could be improved about transporting and storing fresh seafood, but we want to set the record straight. Here are some fresh seafood basics.

Proper Handling & Storage

Maintaining the quality of fresh seafood requires proper handling and storage from sea to store. Nordic Catch ensures that our fish remains as close to 34° Fahrenheit as possible to prevent spoilage and ensure its optimal freshness. This careful attention to temperature control helps preserve the fish's peak quality until it reaches your table.

Addressing Misconceptions

Many consumers believe that "fresh" fish at grocery stores has never been frozen, which is often untrue. Most "fresh" fish have likely been previously frozen and thawed. Nordic Catch offers fresh seafood that has never been frozen, ensuring it's at its peak quality when it reaches you.

Preparation

There's a misconception that cooking frozen seafood is more manageable than preparing fresh seafood, but that couldn't be further from the truth. While you can store frozen fish for extended periods, it may lose some quality if you don't use the proper thawing methods. Our commitment to freshness means you receive your fish at its peak quality, reducing the need for thawing or long-term storage and simplifying its preparation while ensuring the best taste and texture.

Flash Freezing vs. Never Frozen

Flash freezing preserves the quality of seafood by freezing it quickly at very low temperatures to prevent the formation of large ice crystals. However, Nordic Catch never freezes its seafood because the slight alterations in taste and texture that can still occur are significant enough to prioritize freshness above everything else. 

We want you to experience the seafood in its most natural state as if it were just caught. This means that every bite is bursting with the original flavors of the sea, providing you with a culinary experience that flash-freezing can't match.

Health Benefits of Fresh Seafood

Fresh seafood is delicious and packed with essential nutrients contributing to your overall health. Here are some key health benefits of seafood.

Rich Source of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Fresh seafood, particularly fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats are crucial for brain health, reducing inflammation and lowering your risk of heart disease. Omega-3s are also linked to improving mood and mental health.

High-Quality Protein

Seafood provides high-quality protein vital for muscle growth, tissue repair, and immune function. Unlike other protein sources, seafood is typically low in saturated fat, making it a heart-healthy option.

Essential Vitamins & Minerals

Fresh seafood contains vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, B12, iodine, and selenium. Vitamin D is essential for bone health and immune function, while vitamin B12 supports nerve function and red blood cell production. Iodine is necessary for thyroid function, and selenium is an antioxidant, protecting your cells from damage.

Supports Weight Management

Including fresh seafood in your diet can help you manage your weight. Seafood is generally low in calories and high in protein, which enables you to feel full and satisfied, reducing the likelihood of overeating. The healthy fats in seafood can also support your metabolism and energy levels.

Promotes Heart Health

Regular consumption of fresh seafood is associated with a lower risk of heart disease. The omega-3 fatty acids in fish help reduce triglycerides, lower blood pressure, and decrease the risk of arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). Many health organizations, including the American Heart Association, recommend eating fish regularly as part of a heart-healthy diet.

Improves Brain Function

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are vital for your brain's health. They support cognitive function, memory, and learning. Studies have shown that regular seafood consumption can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease in older adults.

So, the next time you crave seafood, remember the advantages of choosing fresh over frozen. Nordic Catch Seafood offers a wide selection of fresh seafood that is never frozen, ensuring that you enjoy the best flavors, nutrition, and quality while positively impacting the environment. Treat yourself to the unparalleled taste and benefits of fresh seafood today.