Meat & Seafood

Great question — timing can make a difference. In many stores, seafood counters are restocked early in the day and on weekdays when stores are less busy, so shopping mid-morning or early afternoon on a weekday may increase your chances of seeing freshly displayed items.

• Ask a seafood associate: They can tell you when the counter was stocked that day.
• Check the display: Look for items on a bed of ice and staff-trimmed portions.
• Use store services: Consider pickup windows if you want items prepared right before you collect them.

Local schedules vary, so it's helpful to call your store for the most accurate restock times.

There are convenient options to get meat and seafood to your door. Use the Walmart website or app to shop the meat & seafood section, add items to your cart, and choose a grocery delivery time that fits your schedule.

• Delivery windows: Select a delivery slot at checkout and track your order.
• Packaging: Perishable items are typically packed to stay cold during transit, but exact methods may vary by location.
• Pickup alternative: If you prefer to inspect items, choose curbside pickup and collect them soon after they're prepared.

If something looks off on arrival, contact customer service through your order details for help with returns or refunds.

When you're standing at the seafood case, use a few simple checks to pick a good piece.

• Appearance: Look for bright, moist flesh and clear eyes on whole fish; fillets should look shiny, not dried out.
• Smell: A mild, ocean-like scent is typical; avoid strong or sour odors.
• Texture: Flesh should feel firm and spring back lightly when touched.
• Ask staff: Ask when the fish arrived, how it was handled, or if the counter can trim or portion your selection.

Store associates can offer holding and preparation tips to help you get the most from your purchase.

Buying fresh fish online can be safe if you check a few key details before you order.

• Product info: Look for clear handling and shipping descriptions so you know how the fish will be packed and how fast it ships.
• Shipping speed: Faster delivery windows or cold-chain options reduce time in transit and may help maintain quality.
• Returns and support: Review the seller's return policy and customer service options in case an item doesn't meet expectations.
• Inspect on arrival: Check temperature, smell, and appearance at delivery and follow return instructions if something seems wrong.

These steps can help reduce risk, but options and practices vary by retailer and location.

Subscription boxes offer convenience and curated selections, but whether they save money depends on several personal factors.

• Compare costs: Check price per pound and factor in shipping when comparing to in-store prices and weekly promotions.
• Use and waste: Subscriptions can reduce shopping trips and food waste if portions match your needs; however, unused items reduce value.
• Convenience value: Consider time saved and specialty cuts you might not find in-store.
• Alternatives: Bulk buying, seasonal sales, or store pickup/delivery may offer cost-effective options depending on your shopping habits.

Running a short comparison based on your usual shopping list can help you decide if a subscription makes sense for you.