Shrimp is excellent for health and can be prepared in many ways. Scientific researches have revealed that they are low on calories and fat. However, a patient of cholesterol should be careful about the intake of this seafood. Shrimps are high on cholesterol compared to some other seafood items like lobster tails and king crabs. Shrimps are available in various sizes, and the price ranges vary according to it. However, the researchers so far have not been able to establish a direct link between the sizes and tastes of shrimps.

The shrimps can be classified into two categories – cold water shrimps and warm water shrimps. The cold water shrimps are generally available in the north Pacific and the north Atlantic; while the warm water shrimps are found in the tropical waters. A major share of the shrimp in America is caught from the south of Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico. The experts differentiate these shrimps from their shell colors, which can be anything from white, brown and pink. It has been established that the Gulf shrimps with a white colored shell, is the one with the most unique flavor. This is the reason why this variety is also very expensive and rare to find.

There are several important factors that you must take into account before buying shrimps in the market. For instance, shrimps with black rings or spots are not good indicators for fresh meat. Also, check for the shell color, they should not be yellow under any circumstances. Reject the shrimps straightaway if they smell anything like bleach or ammonia. Be careful with the tags and labels on the packet like ‘jumbo’ or ‘large,’ because as per the seafood guidelines, there are no such terms.

Besides, the purchase guidelines, the part of cooking a shrimp should also be taken seriously. Just like the preparation of lobster tails, it is also advisable to cook the shrimps on the day of their purchase. However, remember no to keep the freshly cooked shrimps alongside the shellfish and raw fish, they just might increase the chances of bacteria migration.

The storage and preservation of frozen seafood and shrimps are equally important. The time and distance from the market to your home is crucial for maintaining the quality of seafood. If possible carry a cooling device or a portable refrigerator for keeping the shrimps as fresh as possible. And also remember to take out the refrigerated seafood just minutes before the time of cooking. This would not only be good for your health but for the shrimps as well. The shrimps usually stay in a drowsy, sleep like state when they are taken out of the refrigerator. So, it is the best time to cook as the poor creatures would feel a lesser amount of pain.

Sufficient amount of heat should be generated at the time of cooking the shrimps in order to destroy any kind of bacteria. However, you must be careful, as overcooking and excessive heat can diminish the flavor and make the flesh harder for eating.