How can you check if your crab is fresh?

It's not safe to eat crab unless you're sure it's fresh! Here's how to check:

For Live Crabs:

* Movement: A fresh crab will be active and move its legs and claws. If it's sluggish or doesn't move at all, it's likely not fresh.

* Eyes: The eyes should be clear and shiny, not cloudy or sunken.

* Shell: The shell should be hard and firm, not soft or mushy.

* Smell: A fresh crab should have a mild, slightly sweet smell. If it smells fishy or ammonia-like, it's not fresh.

For Cooked Crabs:

* Color: Cooked crab should have a bright red color, not a dull or grayish color.

* Shell: The shell should be firm and hard. If it's soft or mushy, the crab is not fresh.

* Smell: Cooked crab should have a mild, pleasant smell. If it smells fishy or sour, it's not fresh.

Additional Tips:

* Buy from reputable sources: Choose a seafood market or store that has a good reputation for freshness.

* Ask about the catch date: If possible, find out when the crab was caught. Fresh crab is usually caught within a few days of being sold.

* Store properly: Store live crabs in a cool, moist environment. Store cooked crab in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Important Note: If you're unsure about the freshness of crab, it's best to err on the side of caution and not eat it. Eating spoiled crab can make you very sick.