Should You Choose “Straight Shrimp” or “Curved Shrimp”? The Difference Is Huge but Few People Know

When shopping for shrimp at the market, many people don’t know whether to choose straight shrimp or curved shrimp. At first glance, the two might look similar, but in reality, there’s a big difference — and choosing the wrong one could mean bringing home shrimp that’s no longer fresh.

The Real Difference Between Straight and Curved Shrimp

There is a significant difference between shrimp that appear straight and those that curl naturally. If you don’t know how to tell them apart, it’s easy to end up buying shrimp that have already died and been stored in the freezer for too long. These shrimp not only have mushy, low-quality meat, but they also develop a strong fishy odor that lingers even after cooking, no matter how much seasoning you use.

When you go to the market or supermarket, always prioritize shrimp that are slightly curved. This shape tells you something important about their freshness. Once shrimp die, the muscles in their bodies relax and become soft. Even if they’re later frozen, their bodies often appear unnaturally straight.

In contrast, live or freshly caught shrimp naturally curl when they’re exposed to low temperatures or stress. This curved shape comes from muscle contraction that happens right after death — a reliable sign that the shrimp were alive not long before being sold.

Three Important Details to Watch When Buying Shrimp

Besides the shrimp’s shape, there are a few other critical things to look out for to avoid buying old or poorly stored shrimp.

1. Shrimp Missing Their Heads or Tails

If you notice shrimp with missing heads or tails, it’s a red flag. The head is usually the first part to spoil, becoming soft, mushy, and sometimes even giving off a sour smell. This means the shrimp have been kept for too long, and their meat won’t taste fresh anymore. When cooked, these shrimp tend to have a strong fishy odor and lose their firm, sweet texture.

2. Shrimp Shell Turning Red

If the shrimp’s shell has turned reddish or pinkish before cooking, it’s likely been exposed to high temperatures during transport or storage. Normally, raw shrimp should have a clear gray or bluish shell, depending on the type. A red or orange tint means the shrimp are aging or beginning to spoil. Their meat will lose flavor and elasticity. Always choose shrimp with clean, translucent shells and no signs of discoloration.

3. Shrimp Flesh That Feels Too Soft

Fresh shrimp should feel springy and slightly firm to the touch. If the flesh feels soft, mushy, or slippery, it’s a clear indication that the shrimp has started to spoil. The head and tail may detach easily, and there’s often a strong, unpleasant smell. When cooked, these shrimp develop an overly fishy taste and rubbery texture. To ensure food safety and taste, it’s best to avoid buying them.

Extra Tip: How to Boil Shrimp for the Best Flavor

Cooking shrimp properly also makes a big difference. When boiling shrimp, always use boiling water and consider adding Sichuan peppercorns, slices of ginger, and a splash of beer. These ingredients help remove any lingering fishy smell and enhance the shrimp’s natural sweetness.

For the best flavor, shrimp should be eaten the same day they are cooked. If left for too long, the meat becomes tough and dry, losing its delicate texture and sweetness.

Final Advice

When buying shrimp, choose the ones that are curved and have firm, translucent bodies. This simple observation can tell you a lot about their freshness. Curved shrimp are almost always fresher, and when cooked — whether boiled, grilled, or stir-fried — they deliver a tender, sweet, and naturally delicious taste that straight, old shrimp simply can’t match.