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ไทยDried squid is not just a dish but also a culinary essence of the sea, imbued with the flavors of sun and wind and the dedication of fishermen. Among the myriad of dried squid products on the market today, Grade 1 dried squid is always considered the epitome of premium quality, winning the hearts of many discerning diners. However, with the diversity in prices and origins, understanding the price of Grade 1 dried squid and how to distinguish genuine from fake has become an essential issue that consumers need to pay close attention to. The following article from Ola Squid will help you discover the characteristics and the most accurate selection tips for Grade 1 dried squid. Let’s follow along!
Overview of Dried Squid
Before delving deeper into prices and classifications, let’s explore the fascinating aspects of dried squid – one of the most popular dried seafood products today.
What is Grade 1 Dried Squid?
Grade 1 dried squid is selected from the freshest squid, caught on the same day, then processed and sun-dried naturally. The squid is large, thick-bodied, uniform in size, not torn, and retains its natural oceanic aroma. This type of squid has high economic value and is often beautifully packaged, exclusively for gifting or use in luxurious meals.
Nutritional Content of Dried Squid
Dried squid is not only delicious but also rich in nutrients. 100g of dried squid contains:
- Over 60g of protein: excellent for muscles and body recovery.
- Vitamins B12, B3, B6: support the nervous system and energy metabolism.
- Zinc, copper, selenium: boost immunity and act as antioxidants.
- Low in fat: suitable for those on a diet.
Flavor
Grade 1 dried squid has a naturally rich, sweet flavor, with chewy yet tender meat that becomes exquisitely aromatic when grilled. This is precisely why grilled dried squid or spicy stir-fried dried squid dishes are always “bestsellers” during holidays and Tet.
Price of Grade 1 Dried Squid on the Market Today
To choose a product that fits your needs and budget, it is essential to understand the price of Grade 1 dried squid based on size and classification. Currently, dried squid is divided into several categories, with Grade 1 being the highest quality, followed by Grade 2 and Grade 3, catering to different usage needs.
Grade 1 Dried Squid
Grade 1 dried squid is strictly selected from large, thick-bodied, uniform squid, sun-dried naturally immediately after catching. The squid meat is guaranteed to be tender, chewy, sweet, and retains the natural flavor of the sea.
The price of Grade 1 dried squid usually varies depending on the size (number of squid per kg), specifically as follows:
- 3-4 pieces/kg: 950,000 – 1,250,000 VND/kg (Very large squid, thick meat, suitable for high-end gifts)
- 5-7 pieces/kg: 850,000 – 950,000 VND/kg (Medium size, delicious meat texture, rich sweet taste)
- 8-10 pieces/kg: 750,000 – 850,000 VND/kg (Common type, easy to buy, suitable for daily meals)
These prices may fluctuate slightly depending on factors such as the fishing season, fishing grounds, processing quality, and distribution unit (retail, wholesale, or direct order from fishermen).
Grade 2 Dried Squid
Compared to Grade 1, Grade 2 dried squid has a thinner body, smaller size, and sometimes a few pieces may not meet appearance standards (slight tears, uneven color). However, if stored correctly, this type of squid still retains its natural flavor, suitable for families or restaurants that use it regularly at a reasonable cost.
- 10-15 pieces/kg: 600,000 – 700,000 VND/kg
Grade 2 squid can still be grilled or stir-fried with chili, pineapple, etc., with stable quality if purchased from a reputable source.
Grade 3 Dried Squid
This is the lowest-priced product on the market, but the quality is often inconsistent. Grade 3 squid is usually old stock, small, very thin-bodied, not dried properly, or processed using industrial drying methods, resulting in less aroma, mushy texture, and dark color.
- 15-20 pieces/kg: 450,000 – 550,000 VND/kg
This type of squid should only be considered when you need to process large quantities, make side dishes, or if your budget is limited. Pay close attention to the expiration date and storage conditions to ensure food safety.
How to Identify Delicious Dried Squid
In the increasingly diverse dried squid market, consumers can easily be “tricked” by low-quality products, counterfeits, or squid treated with chemicals. Especially as the price of Grade 1 dried squid continues to rise, distinguishing delicious squid to get your money’s worth is crucial.
Here are the important criteria to help you identify delicious, genuine Grade 1 dried squid, from its external appearance to its feel and smell:
Color of Dried Squid
Color is the first and a very important visual cue to assess the quality of dried squid. Grade 1 dried squid typically has a light pink or slightly natural red color. This is the color of the squid meat that has been properly sun-dried and not treated with chemicals.
If the squid appears dark brown, unusually dark, or has splotchy black spots, it is likely old, oxidized, or was not handled hygienically during the drying process. Therefore, you should avoid buying this type of squid.
White Powdery Layer on the Squid Body
One of the characteristic signs of Grade 1 dried squid is a thin white powdery layer evenly coating the surface of the squid body. This is not dirt, but natural salt crystallized from the squid’s juices after sun-drying.
- This powdery layer should be uniform in color, lightly attached, and not splotchy.
- If the powdery layer is too thick, chalky white, or flakes off in patches, it might indicate that the squid has been treated with color additives.
- If there is no powdery layer or it feels damp, it is low-quality squid that has absorbed moisture or was not processed correctly.
Distinct Aroma
Delicious Grade 1 dried squid will have a natural aroma of seafood dried under the sun – a slightly strong but not foul, not overpowering, and chemical-free scent.
When you bring the squid close to your nose, you should clearly perceive the salty aroma of the sea, mixed with a hint of sun and wind. If the squid has a strange smell like burnt, moldy, or a pungent chemical odor – it is definitely squid that has become damp, is old, or has been treated with chemicals to extend its shelf life.
Dryness of the Squid
This is a technical factor but easy to check. Grade 1 dried squid will be adequately dry: the squid body is dry, not sticky to the touch, yet still retains a slight chewiness when gently bent.
- If the squid is too dry and brittle, it might be old or over-dried, losing its chewy texture.
- Conversely, if the squid is still unusually moist, chewy, or feels mushy to the touch, it indicates that the squid was not dried properly, is prone to spoilage, and may harbor harmful microorganisms.
Product Adhesiveness
One way to detect fake or chemically treated squid is by checking the product’s adhesiveness. Gently squeeze the squid or touch its surface.
- Genuine Grade 1 dried squid will be dry, not sticky to the touch, and have no slimy feel.
- If your hands feel sticky, have a slight oily residue, or an odd smell, it could be squid that has been soaked in preservatives or colorants.
The price of Grade 1 dried squid is steadily increasing, so equipping yourself with the knowledge to distinguish delicious, genuine squid is indispensable for smart consumers. If you are unsure how to identify dried squid when buying online, choose reputable manufacturers like Ola Squid to ensure quality with peace of mind.
How to Distinguish Genuine Dried Squid from Fake Dried Squid
In today’s increasingly complex market, where fakes and counterfeits are becoming more sophisticated, consumers need to pay special attention to distinguishing genuine dried squid, especially Grade 1. Without a keen eye, you could spend a significant amount of money and end up with a substandard product, potentially even harming your health.
Here is a detailed comparison table between genuine and fake dried squid, based on common and easy-to-check criteria:
| Criteria | Genuine Dried Squid (Grade 1) | Fake Dried Squid (made from bagasse, chemical powders…) |
| Shape | Clear squid body, distinct muscle fibers, intact head and tentacles | Faint shape, lacking detail, easily brittle |
| Color | Light pink or light red, with a natural white powdery layer evenly distributed | Pale, yellowish-dull color, no powdery layer or splotchy powder |
| Aroma | Light, characteristic aroma of sun-dried seafood | Strange, pungent, plastic-like, or no smell |
| When burned | Burns evenly, smells like grilled meat, fine ash dissolves easily | Burns acridly, smells like plastic, ash clumps, does not dissolve |
| When soaked in water | Naturally soft and chewy, water slightly cloudy, no unusual sediment | Easily disintegrates, water very cloudy, has a film or strange sediment |
| Chewiness & Tenderness | Chewy and tender, bends with elasticity | Crumbly, easily breaks apart, no meat-like texture |
| Price | Higher, from 750,000 – 1,250,000 VND/kg (depending on size) | Unusually cheap, possibly only 200,000 – 300,000 VND/kg |
Note:
- Genuine Grade 1 dried squid often has a higher price due to its superior quality, manual processing, and clear sourcing.
- If you encounter squid with an unusually low price compared to the market price for Grade 1 dried squid, consumers should be cautious and inspect it thoroughly before purchasing.
How to Store Dried Squid
After selecting high-quality, genuine Grade 1 dried squid, proper storage plays a crucial role in preserving its flavor, nutritional value, and safety. If not stored correctly, even delicious squid can quickly degrade, lose its taste, or become moldy or spoiled.
For Opened Dried Squid Packaging
Once the packaging is opened, squid is very susceptible to absorbing moisture from the air, especially in humid conditions. You should place the squid in a zip-lock bag or an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator’s cool compartment (2-8°C). It is best to consume it within 1-2 weeks to ensure quality. If not using immediately, seal it tightly and store it in the freezer; the squid will keep longer while retaining its natural sweetness.
For Unopened Dried Squid Packaging
When not in use, you can keep the product in its original packaging and store it in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Especially, do not store it near the stove or areas with high temperatures, as this can cause the squid to lose its natural dryness. If the packaging is torn or shows signs of leakage, inspect it carefully and transfer it to a different storage bag to prevent mold.
Storing Dried Squid for Travel
When transporting dried squid over long distances, especially during hot weather, you should vacuum seal the product to minimize contact with air and moisture. Then, wrap the squid in several layers of newspaper or insulated bags, place it in a cooler box with dry ice or cold gel packs to maintain a stable temperature. This method helps the squid retain its dryness, prevents it from becoming mushy, oily, or developing mold during transportation.
Delicious Dishes Made from Dried Squid
One of the reasons why the price of Grade 1 dried squid remains high is its versatility in creating many delicious and attractive dishes suitable for various occasions. Dried squid is not only a favorite snack but also an ideal ingredient for creating inspiring family meals.
Grilled and Shredded Dried Squid
A must-have “national dish” for any gathering, grilled and shredded dried squid is a simple yet sophisticated way to enjoy dried squid. Simply grill the squid over charcoal until the surface is evenly golden and fragrant, then shred it into bite-sized pieces by hand. Dip it with spicy chili sauce or lime salt, and this dish offers a chewy, crispy texture, with the natural sweetness of the squid blending with a rich, spicy flavor that is unforgettable.
Spicy Stir-Fried Dried Squid
To make spicy stir-fried dried squid, first soak the squid in warm water for about 10-15 minutes to soften it for easier slicing. Sauté minced garlic with chili satay until fragrant, then add the squid and stir-fry quickly over high heat, adding a little sugar and fish sauce to create a balanced sweet and savory taste. This dish is best served hot with white rice; the spicy flavor enhances the chewy sweetness of the squid, making the meal more appealing and hearty.
Pineapple Stir-Fried Dried Squid
Pineapple stir-fried dried squid is a creative combination of the tangy flavor of pineapple and the rich, chewy texture of dried squid. After softening the squid by soaking, cut it into small pieces, stir-fry with sliced onions, pineapple pieces, and a little green pepper.
The simple seasoning blends to create a dish that is both novel and delicious, suitable for those who want to change their usual meals while retaining the distinct freshness of Grade 1 dried squid.
- Assorted Dried Squid Snack Flavor A2
- Assorted Dried Squid Snack Flavor A3
- Assorted Dried Squid Snack Flavor A4
- Assorted Dried Squid Snack Flavor A5
- Assorted Dried Squid Snack Flavor A6
Where to Buy Grade 1 Dried Squid?
If you are wondering where to buy Grade 1 dried squid to ensure quality and reasonable prices, Ola Squid is the top choice for you. With fresh squid meticulously selected from clean seas, along with precise processing and drying procedures, Ola Squid is committed to providing Grade 1 dried squid that is delicious, safe, and retains the natural flavor of the ocean.
Order now at Ola Squid to experience the premium quality of dried squid and enjoy dedicated customer service and fast delivery. Don’t miss the opportunity to own genuine Grade 1 dried squid products, making your meals more attractive and meaningful!
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
During the process of learning about and choosing to buy Grade 1 dried squid, many customers often have common questions related to quality, price, and other issues surrounding the product.
Is Large Grade 1 Dried Squid Delicious?
Grade 1 dried squid, especially large ones, often has thicker, firmer, and more intensely sweet meat than smaller squid. When cooking, you should grill it evenly and thoroughly to ensure the squid is cooked through without becoming dry and hard, preserving the characteristic delicious flavor of Grade 1 dried squid.
What is the Current Price of Grade 1 Dried Squid?
The price of Grade 1 dried squid on the market varies depending on size and origin. Typically, prices range from 750,000 to 1,250,000 VND/kg. Larger squid with thick bodies, shiny skin, and uniform appearance will command higher prices due to their superior quality and meticulous processing.
What is Dried Squid Fish? Is it Squid?
No. The term “dried squid fish” is often a misnomer or used to deceive customers. Squid are soft-bodied cephalopods, not fish, so they are biologically completely different. If you encounter any place advertising “dried squid fish” at an unusually low price, you should be extremely cautious as it may be counterfeit, low-quality, or mixed with ingredients of unknown origin.
Understanding the correct price of Grade 1 dried squid and how to distinguish genuine from fake not only helps you choose a quality product but also prevents you from being “ripped off” by misleading advertising tactics. We hope this article from Ola Squid has provided you with the necessary knowledge to fully enjoy delicious seafood dishes. Hurry and place your order today to receive many attractive offers from Ola Squid!
