Buy: Fresh Crawfish

Purchase from local seafood markets or specialty distributors. If you aren't in a coastal region, you can order live delivery from established shippers like Louisiana Crawfish Co. or CajunCrawfish.com .

Fresh crawfish should have a clean, briny, or slightly sweet scent . Reject any that smell sour, fishy, or like ammonia.

When buying live crawfish, use these physical markers to ensure they are healthy: buy fresh crawfish

Crawfish are sold by the pound. A standard sack typically weighs between 30 and 35 pounds. Crawfish 101 - What to Remember When Buying Live Crawfish

Only buy crawfish that are active and moving . Avoid those that are limp or "floppy". Fresh crawfish should have a clean, briny, or

Look for "Cajun-certified" labels or those harvested from Louisiana for the most authentic quality. 2. Inspect for Freshness

Aim for late January to June , with peak availability between Mardi Gras and May . Early-season crawfish often have more tender shells, making them easier to peel. A standard sack typically weighs between 30 and 35 pounds

Depending on the species, they may look red, nearly black, or light brown while alive, but they should all turn bright red once cooked. 3. Determine the Right Quantity