3 Ways to Tell If Tuna Is Fresh

Smell it first Properly fresh tuna smells clean and briny, like the ocean. If it smells sour, ammonia-like, or aggressively fishy, it is past its prime.

Check the color and texture Fresh tuna is deep red to dark purple, almost mahogany. Brown or gray patches mean oxidation or age. The flesh should be firm and spring back when pressed; if it feels slimy, mushy, or leaves a wet imprint, skip it.

Trust your nose over your eyes with packaged tuna Pre-packaged tuna that has been gas-flushed can look red but still be old. When in doubt, rely on the smell test.