If you’ve recently ordered a sashimi platter for a party, you may be wondering how to keep it fresh until guests arrive. Raw fish can be difficult to preserve, and it’s usually safe to eat for only 24 hours after it’s prepared. Here are some tips to help you care for your delicious sashimi platter until mealtime.

How to Preserve Fresh Fish

1. Wrap It

When food is exposed to air, it begins to oxidize, which causes food to break down. Wrap the fish tightly in plastic wrap, and put it in an airtight container. This provides two barriers between your seafood and the outside air.

2. Wash Your Hands

There are many germs on your hands that could impact the freshness of your sashimi platter. Since fish is a porous surface, bacteria can easily make their way into the fish. Always wash your hands before you touch any seafood and use clean utensils to handle it.

3. Keep It Dry

Bacteria that cause food spoilage thrive in wet environments. When these bacteria take over, the fish will become rancid faster, reducing its freshness and diminishing the time you’re able to eat it. If you eat spoiled fish, you could experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. To lessen this risk, don’t rinse the fish or cover it with ice until it’s sealed properly.

If you want to buy fresh fish, head to Ahi and Vegetable in Honolulu, HI. Owner Sam Seo has over 10 years of experience buying local ahi, and he purchases the fish every single day at an early-morning auction. All fish is sliced at a premier cutting facility to ensure sanitary handling. Customers can enjoy fresh seafood in all of their dishes, including sashimi platters, bentos, and donburis. View their menu online, or call (808) 845-3500 to place a takeout order.