Being able to source fresh, high-quality fish online is a game-changer for your F&B business. Here are 5 tips to help you make an informed decision!

Fish is a finicky product to purchase online. Compared to all the fresh food that can be purchased wholesale on the Internet, fish is the most difficult to ensure the quality of. At the same time, being able to source fresh, high-quality fish for your F&B business online means increased work efficiency and much-needed convenience.

The popularity of online wholesale fish procurement amongst restaurants, caterers and other food service establishments means finding quality fish online is easier than ever these days. With the right tips and intel, making an informed decision and securing a reliable supply of fresh, high-quality seafood can be simple and rewarding.

1. Identify Your Wholesale Seafood Needs

Every F&B business will have different requirements of their whole fish suppliers, so identifying what these are for your establishment is crucial. Consider the type of cuisine you offer, your customer’s preferences, key menu items and signature dishes as well as your budget constraints.

As not all types of fish are equally accessible for all seafood suppliers, prioritise the quality and quantity of the fish and seafood you use on your menu the most. Knowing what you need out of your wholesale seafood partnership will go a long way in narrowing down your options and making informed purchasing decisions.

2. Research Reputable Suppliers

Not all wholesale fish suppliers are created equal—and not everything you see on the Internet is reliable. Take all the time you need to research and vet through potential suppliers to ensure they meet your standards of quality, reliability and customer service.

If you have friends in the business or know some of the clients listed on the food supplier’s website, check in with them to learn more about their thoughts. You’ll want to partner with an online food supplier that’s not just good at digital marketing, but one that has a proven track record of delivering fresh, sustainable seafood with sources that can be tracked.

How can you check a supplier’s track record if you’re entirely new to wholesale seafood procurement?

Check their credentials and reputations. Suppliers that reliably deliver quality and freshness to businesses will have the necessary licences, certifications and accreditations to show that they are complying with food safety and sustainability standards. You can also check their ratings and reviews from other customers, industry associations, and third-party auditors.

As a wholesale food distributor, Prime Deli does all these checks for you so you don’t need to go through the hassle of doing so yourself. By sourcing and partnering with certified, high-quality suppliers of all fish and seafood types on our end, as our customer, you can receive just about any type of fish your F&B business desires.

3. Review Product Quality, Packaging and Shipping Practices

If you’re still doubtful of any supplier’s ability to deliver quality and freshness, you can request for samples or visit their premises to observe how they handle, store and transport their fish and seafood.

Ensure whole fishes have clear, bulging eyes, bright red or pink gills, shiny, moist skin with firm, intact scales and elastic, odourless flesh. Fillets and steaks should be firm and moist with a bright, uniform colour, no ragged edges and a mild, pleasant odour. Shellfish should have closed shells when tapped, plump and moist meat as well as a fresh, briny odour.

Since fish and seafood is a highly perishable product, proper packaging and shipping methods are critical to maintaining freshness and quality in transit. Choose suppliers that use insulated packaging, clean, sanitary ice and reliable shipping methods equipped with refrigeration units, thermometers, sealed from potential sources of contamination.

4. Compare Pricing and Terms

While searching for the highest quality ingredients for your F&B business, don’t forget to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. Ask about a supplier’s pricing structures and inquire about any discounts or bulk purchasing options available. Take into account factors like the minimum order requirements, shipping fees and return policies to eliminate the possibility of getting trapped by hidden fees later on.

5. Evaluate Customer Service and Support

As you communicate with each supplier, evaluate the type of customer service you receive. Excellent customer service can make all the difference when purchasing wholesale fish and seafood online. You’ll want to work with a supplier that is responsive, knowledgeable and willing to address any questions or concerns you may have.

Maintaining a pleasant working partnership with a supplier or distributor long-term is essential if you’re looking to grow your F&B business, so make sure that the suppliers you’re communicating with are using reliable communication channels to discuss business details with you from day one.

With as many seafood suppliers as there are fish in the sea, purchasing quality wholesale fish and seafood online can be daunting—especially if you’re a small F&B start-up. Which is why relying on trusted food distributors like Prime Deli can go a long way in ensuring you receive a steady supply of fresh, high quality fish for your culinary business without having to do all the research work by yourself!

Contact us for a full, updated list of all the fish and seafood products we deliver today!