Look for labels like Marine Stewardship Council (wild) or Aquaculture Stewardship Council (farmed) to ensure responsible sourcing.

Unless you are sure the shrimp is "fresh-off-the-boat" (never frozen), frozen raw shrimp is superior to thawed seafood counter shrimp, says Olga's Flavor Factory .

Shell-on shrimp provides better flavor and prevents overcooking.

Raw shrimp should look gray, not pink (pink indicates it is already cooked or spoiling). Smell: Fresh shrimp should have a clean, neutral smell. Texture: The shells should feel firm, not slimy or soft. How to Buy Shrimp at the Grocery Store | Bon Appétit

Avoid buying already cooked shrimp, as it is easy to overcook later, say experts. How to Identify Quality

Shrimp is sold by "count" (e.g., 21/25, which means 21–25 shrimp per pound). The lower the number, the larger the shrimp, say Facebook groups.

When purchasing , opting for high-quality, frozen, raw shrimp is generally better than buying "fresh" (previously frozen) options, as it ensures better texture and flavor, notes Bon Appétit . Look for shrimp with the shell on to preserve flavor, and avoid any that smell like ammonia or have slimy shells.