How do you know if store bought fresh salmon is spoiled?

1. Smell: Spoiled salmon will have an unpleasant, "off" odor. It may smell sour, fishy, or ammonia-like. Trust your nose and avoid salmon that has an unusual or strong odor.

2. Appearance:

- Color: Fresh salmon should have a vibrant pink or orange color. If the color has faded, turned dull, or developed a grayish hue, it may be past its prime.

- Texture: Fresh salmon should be firm and springy to the touch. If it feels soft, mushy, or slimy, it's likely spoiled. Additionally, look for any signs of bruising or discoloration on the surface of the fish.

3. Eyes: The eyes of fresh salmon should be clear, bright, and slightly bulging. Cloudy, sunken, or dull eyes may indicate spoilage.

4. Gills: The gills of fresh salmon should be bright red and free from any excessive slime or discoloration. If the gills have turned brownish, grayish, or greenish, it could be a sign of spoilage.

5. Taste: If you've cooked the salmon and it has an off or unpleasant taste, it's best to discard it. Avoid consuming spoiled fish as it can cause foodborne illness.

When in doubt, it's always better to err on the side of caution and discard any salmon that shows signs of spoilage.