The mystery of fish maw as a "chameleon": Unveiling the truth and how skillful care can boost the value of fish maw!
Fish maw , a precious ingredient hailed as "ocean gold," is not only nourishing and health-promoting but also bears the marks of time. However, the market is rife with counterfeit and substandard products, making it difficult to distinguish genuine from fake. Improper storage often causes this valuable fish maw to depreciate in value. Don't worry! Jin Haisheng unveils the mystery of fish maw's "chameleon-like" nature, helping you develop a discerning eye and skillfully preserve it, allowing the value of your fish maw to soar!
Fish maw "identity card": A complete guide to identifying genuine and fake products.
To distinguish genuine fish maw from fake, just like checking an "ID card," you can easily tell the difference by looking at the following points:
1. Appearance: Examine the texture and color closely.
- Color: Genuine fish maw is usually translucent to slightly yellow with a natural sheen. If the color is too white or appears unnaturally dull, it may be questionable.
- Texture: The surface of fish maw should have clear natural texture, rather than being smooth like plastic. Different types of fish maw have different texture characteristics; for example, tubular fish maw usually has obvious "herringbone" patterns.
- Thickness and shape: High-quality fish maw is thick and plump with a regular shape. Inferior fish maw may be thin and brittle, or have an incomplete shape.
2. Texture: Tactile feel and elasticity
- Dryness: Genuine fish maw should feel dry and hard to the touch, and will produce a crisp sound when tapped. If it feels damp or sticky, it may have absorbed moisture.
- Elasticity: High-quality fish maw , when dry, will have a certain degree of elasticity when gently bent and will not easily break.
3. Scent Section: Smelling the Ocean
- Smell: Genuine fish maw has a faint, natural oceanic smell, not a pungent fishy or other unpleasant odor. If you smell a chemical, musty, or rotten smell, discard it immediately!
Tip: Different types of fish maw (such as maw from mullet, spider maw, white fish maw, and red-mouthed fish maw) have their own unique characteristics. Understanding these differences can help you identify them more accurately.
Saving the "Chameleon": Fish Maw Care and Storage Techniques
Proper care and storage are key to maintaining, and even enhancing, the value of fish maw .
1. Storage environment: Dry and well-ventilated is key.
- Moisture control: Fish maw is most susceptible to moisture, which can cause it to mold and spoil. Always store fish maw in a dry, well-ventilated environment.
- Sealing: Store fish maw in sealed bags or containers to avoid direct contact with air and effectively isolate it from moisture and odors.
- Avoid direct sunlight, as ultraviolet rays will accelerate the oxidation and deterioration of fish maw.
- Keep away from odors: Fish maw easily absorbs odors, so avoid storing it with items that have strong smells, such as mothballs and spices.
2. Regular check-ups: Early detection and treatment.
- Regular ventilation: Even if stored well, it is recommended to take out the fish maw regularly and let it air dry in a dry and ventilated place, but remember not to expose it to direct sunlight.
- Insect infestation and mold: If insect infestation or mold spots are found in the fish maw , it should be separated immediately, and other fish maw should be checked for damage. For minor insect infestation or mold, consult a professional for treatment advice.
Jin Haisheng kindly reminds you: If your fish maw has developed mold, insect infestation, or other problems and you don't know what to do, don't panic! It may still have recycling value. Contact Jin Haisheng immediately; we provide professional appraisal and recycling services to find the best home for your fish maw!
