Salmon is one of the most popular and nutritious fish consumed around the world. Many people choose to purchase salmon frozen for convenience and prolong its shelf life. However, once thawed, it’s important to know how long the salmon stays fresh and safe to eat. This will reduce food waste and the risk of foodborne illness.
In this article, we will discuss how long thawed salmon lasts in the refrigerator and how to tell if it has gone bad. We will also provide tips on the best methods for thawing frozen salmon and how to store it for maximum freshness after thawing.
How Long Does Thawed Salmon Last in the Fridge?
Once thawed, fresh salmon that has been continuously refrigerated will keep for about 2 to 3 days in the fridge. This window can vary slightly based on a few factors:
Type of Salmon
– Fresh, never frozen salmon – Will last 24-48 hours after thawing
– Previously frozen salmon – Lasts 2-3 days after thawing
Proper Storage
– Store thawed salmon in a container or wrapped up to prevent drying out
– Keep salmon consistently at or below 40°F
– Don’t refreeze thawed salmon
In general, thawed salmon that has been kept chilled at 40°F or less should be safe to eat for 2-3 days. But it’s best to use it as soon as possible for the highest quality.
How to Tell If Thawed Salmon Is Bad
It’s important to know how to check thawed salmon for freshness and signs of spoilage. Here are some tips:
Appearance
– Flesh should be glistening and firm
– Uniform color throughout flesh
– Avoid salmon with brown or yellowish discoloration
Smell
– Should have a mild, fresh “ocean” smell
– Strong fishy, sour, or ammonia-like odors indicate spoilage
Texture
– Flesh should spring back when pressed gently
– Slime or mushy flesh means salmon is spoiled
Expiration Date
– Use expired thawed salmon within 1-2 days at most
– Don’t risk eating salmon more than 3 days past “sell-by” date
When in doubt, remember the old adage: “When in doubt, throw it out!”
Best Practices for Thawing Frozen Salmon
To get the maximum freshness and shelf life out of thawed salmon, follow these best practices:
Refrigerator Thawing
– Slow thaw in fridge at 40°F or below
– Lay frozen salmon in pan to catch drips
– Allow 24 hours for every 1 pound
Cold Water Thawing
– Submerge sealed salmon in cold tap water
– Change water every 30 minutes
– About 1 hour per pound
Microwave Thawing
– Use microwave-safe container
– Thaw 6 ounces salmon for 2-3 minutes
– Rotate and flip during thawing
– Cook immediately after thawing
Once thawed using these methods, use the salmon right away for maximum freshness and shelf life of 2-3 days.
Proper Storage of Thawed Salmon
Storing thawed salmon properly is key to preserving its freshness and shelf life. Follow these storage guidelines:
Refrigeration
– Keep thawed salmon stored in the fridge at 40°F or below
– Use shallow containers and foil to prevent drying out
– Don’t stack packages, which inhibits cold air flow
Freezing
– Freeze any thawed salmon you won’t use in 2-3 days
– Portion into airtight freezer bags or containers
– Exclude as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn
– Label with date and contents
Consumption
– Eat within 2-3 days for best quality and safety
– Cook thoroughly to an internal temperature of 145°F
– Discard any leftover salmon after 3-4 days in fridge
Following proper storage methods will help ensure thawed salmon stays as fresh as possible and reduce food waste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to some common questions about how long thawed salmon lasts:
How can I tell if thawed salmon has gone bad?
Signs that thawed salmon has spoiled include an off smell, yellow or brown coloring, dry or slimy texture, or mushy flesh. Discard any salmon with these qualities.
Can I refreeze thawed salmon?
It’s not recommended. Refreezing thawed salmon can damage the texture and moisture content. For best quality, cook thawed salmon within 2-3 days.
Is it safe to eat thawed salmon that smells a little fishy?
A slightly fishy odor is normal, but a strong or ammonia-like fish smell means the salmon is past its prime. When in doubt, throw it out.
How do I thaw frozen salmon quickly?
For fast thawing, submerge vacuum sealed salmon in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. One pound usually thaws in about an hour.
Can I thaw salmon at room temperature?
No, room temperature thawing is unsafe and breeds bacteria. Thaw frozen salmon in the refrigerator or with cold running water only.
Conclusion
Thawed salmon that has been continuously chilled will keep for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Look for firm, glistening flesh with no discoloration or strong odors. Use proper thawing and storage methods to preserve freshness and shelf life. For best quality and food safety, cook thawed salmon within 2-3 days. Discard any leftovers after 4 days. Following these guidelines will help you enjoy delicious salmon without worrying about foodborne illness.