Shrimp is a delicious and versatile seafood that can be used in various recipes from stir-fry to pasta dishes. However, to be safe to consume, your shrimp should always be as fresh as possible. So, when it comes to storing shrimp, how long does it last in the fridge?
Read on to find out the answer and learn some storage tips for keeping your shrimp in the fridge at its best.
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Contents
Why Do Shrimps Go Bad?
Before we get into the answer of how long shrimp lasts in your fridge, let’s take a closer look at why it goes bad so quickly.
Shrimps contain a high amount of protein and moisture, both of which help bacteria and other microorganisms grow quickly when they’re not stored properly. This is why it’s important to keep shrimp cool and dry, as well as to use up any cooked or uncooked shrimp within 1-2 days of purchase.
How Long Does Shrimp Last in the Fridge?
Now that you know why shrimp spoils quickly, let’s find out how long it can last in your fridge.
Raw Shrimp
According to the USDA, raw shrimp should be stored in the fridge and used within 2 days of purchase because the quality begins to degrade after that time. For best results, keep your raw shrimp in its original packaging and store it on a shelf in the coldest part of your fridge.
If you need to keep your shrimp longer, you can freeze it. To do this, place the raw shrimp in its original packaging in a sealed container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to twelve months. When ready to cook, thaw the frozen shrimp in the fridge overnight or run cold water over it for several minutes before using it.
Cooked Shrimp
When it comes to cooked shrimp, however, the shelf life is slightly longer. Cooked shrimp can be stored in the fridge for no longer than 4 days before it needs to be consumed or thrown away. To ensure the shrimp’s quality, it should be stored in an airtight container or sealed zip-top bag and kept on a shelf in the coldest part of your fridge.
It’s also a good idea to label your cooked shrimp with the date when you cooked it so that you know how long it has been in the fridge.
Shrimp Cocktail
Shrimp cocktail is a popular appetizer that’s made with cooked, chilled shrimp and a flavorful sauce. Due to the shrimp cocktail is made with cooked shrimp, it can last in the fridge for 4 days.
How to Know If Your Shrimp Is Bad?
Another thing to remember when storing shrimp is that it can spoil quickly, so it’s crucial to know the signs of bad shrimp. Several below telltale signs will help you determine a bad shrimp.
The first sign of spoiled shrimp is an off-putting odor coming from the package. Spoiled shrimp will also have changed color, usually becoming darker or duller than normal. In addition, if your shrimp has slimy spots or a layer of brownish-gray residue, it has already started to spoil and should be thrown away. Moreover, the texture of the shrimp will usually change and it will become very soft and mushy.
If you notice any of these signs, discard your shrimp immediately to avoid food poisoning.
How to Store Shrimp in the Fridge?
As we have known shrimp can spoil very quickly, proper storage is essential to keeping your shrimp safe and fresh to eat. Here are some tips for storing your shrimp:
- Store raw shrimp in its original packaging and place it on a shelf in the coldest part of the fridge (at 40 degrees F or lower).
- If you’ve cooked your shrimp, store it in an airtight container or sealed zip-top bag.
- Label the shrimp with the date when you put it in the fridge so that you know how long it has been stored in the fridge.
- For longer storage, you can freeze your shrimp and keep it in the freezer for up to twelve months.
- Discard any spoiled raw or cooked shrimp immediately.
By following these simple storage tips, you can make sure your shrimp stays safe and fresh to eat for as long as possible.
FAQs
Does Shrimp Go Bad in the Fridge?
Yes, shrimp can go bad in the fridge if it’s not stored properly.
Is Raw Shrimp Good After 4 Days In the Fridge?
No, raw shrimp is not considered safe to eat after 4 days in the fridge. It’s best to consume it within two days of purchase.
What is Better to Buy: Fresh Shrimp or Frozen Shrimp?
It depends on your preferences and what you are planning to make with the shrimp. Fresh shrimp is best for dishes that require minimal cooking, such as salads and raw dishes, while frozen shrimp is better for recipes that involve more cooking. Both types of shrimp can be of high quality if bought from a reputable source.
Can You Refreeze Shrimp if It Has Thawed?
No, it’s not recommended to refreeze shrimp that has been thawed as it can increase the risk of foodborne illness.
Bottom Line
Shrimp can be a delicious, nutritious addition to your meals. However, it must be stored correctly in the fridge and consumed within 2 to 4 days to ensure its quality and safety. Remember to check for any signs of spoilage before eating, as spoiled shrimp can cause foodborne illness. With proper storage, you can keep your shrimp safe and fresh to enjoy.
Hopefully, this guide has helped you better understand how to store your shrimp and how long it can last in the fridge.
