Municipality Ministry issues guidelines on selecting and handling fresh fish

Doha, Qatar witnessed a municipal initiative to educate residents on selecting and handling fresh fish. The Ministry of Municipality launched a campaign, sharing practical advice on visual and sensory checks for freshness, best practices for sellers and transporters, and consumer tips to prevent spoilage. Hashtags like #FoodSafety highlighted the campaign on the ministry's X account.

Key indicators of fresh fish involve bright, shiny eyes, red or pink gills, and resilient flesh that springs back when pressed. Signs of poor quality include dull eyes, pale gills, soft flesh, and an unpleasant smell. Sellers are advised to store fish in refrigerators, maintain ice, and use insulated containers for transport. Consumers should purchase fish last, store it in a cooler with ice, and transport it home swiftly.

Illustrated guides in Arabic and English, along with a QR code for further information, were part of the campaign. The hotline (184) and social media channels provided avenues for public inquiries. Ministry officials emphasized these guidelines as part of their ongoing commitment to food safety standards in Qatar, aiming to reduce foodborne illness risks and boost consumer confidence in the local seafood market.

Residents were urged to apply these tips during every purchase, and report any concerns through official channels. The initiative underscored the ministry's dedication to protecting public health and maintaining high standards in fish handling throughout the supply chain.