Fresh salmon can be a delicious and healthy meal option.
However, if you’re not careful with how you store it, that freshness will quickly deteriorate – raising questions about the safety of your meal.
Staying informed on the shelf-life of items in our refrigerator is important to ensure they are consumed while still at their peak quality.
So have you wondered, “How long does salmon last in the fridge?” It’s an important question to ask, especially during hot months when food spoils faster!
Read this blog post for more information on how long after purchase you need to use your salmon and other storage advice for optimal taste and safety.
What Is Salmon?
Salmon is a type of fish that belongs to the Salmonidae family. An anadromous species can migrate between saltwater and freshwater habitats during its lifetime.
Salmon have been fished for centuries and are highly esteemed as a food source due to their rich flavor and nutritional value.
Salmon are found in the cold waters of the North Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic oceans and rivers, streams, and lakes throughout much of North America and Europe.
Salmon is a nutrient-dense food that provides many health benefits due to its high levels of protein, omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), and vitamins such as B6, B12, and D.
It is also low in saturated fat and calories. Salmon can be cooked in various ways, including grilling, baking, smoking, or poaching.
It is an excellent addition to any healthy diet due to its many health benefits.
With its rich flavor and versatile cooking methods, salmon is becoming increasingly popular among home cooks.
Salmon
What Are The Different Types Of Salmon?
There are several different types of salmon around the world. The most common include Pacific, Atlantic and Chinook Salmon.
Pacific Salmon includes five species: chinook (or king) salmon, coho (silver) salmon, chum salmon, pink (humpback) salmon and sockeye (red) salmon.
These species are found in the North Pacific Ocean and the rivers that drain into it.
Atlantic Salmon are anadromous, meaning they migrate from the ocean to freshwater rivers to spawn.
They are found in many places along both the east and west coasts of North America, Europe, and northern Asia.
Chinook (King) Salmon is the largest species of Pacific salmon, with an average weight of 12-30 pounds.
They are found in the waters around Alaska, Washington and Oregon as well as northern California.
The Chinook Salmon is also known for its high-fat content and rich flavor.
These are just a few types of salmon that can be found worldwide.
There are many other species of salmon found in rivers, lakes and oceans worldwide, each offering unique flavors and nutritional value.
The Chinook Salmon
How Long Does Salmon Last In The Fridge?
Salmon will generally last up to two days in the fridge when stored properly.
To prolong its shelf life, storing salmon tightly wrapped or sealed in an airtight container on a bed of ice or frozen gel packs is best.
If you plan on consuming the fish within two days, this is the best way to keep it fresh.
How Long Does Cooked Salmon Last In The Fridge?
Cooked salmon can last for up to three days in the refrigerator.
To keep your cooked salmon as fresh and safe to eat as possible, store it in an airtight container or tightly wrapped plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
You should also put the container at the back of your fridge, where it is coldest, and consume the salmon within three days of cooking.
How Long Is Thawed Salmon Good For The Fridge?
Once thawed, your salmon should be eaten within 1-2 days. If you can’t eat it within this time frame, you may freeze the fillets for up to 3 months.
It’s important to note that once frozen and then thawed again, the quality of the fish will decrease significantly.
Therefore, if you plan to freeze the fish, it is best to cook it before freezing to maintain maximum flavor and texture.
[display-posts id=”430″ image_size=”thumbnail” posts_per_page=”1″]
How Long Is Frozen Salmon Good For In The Fridge?
Frozen salmon can last for up to two months in the refrigerator.
However, consuming the fish within a few days of defrosting is recommended to ensure optimal flavor and texture.
Frozen Salmon
How Can You Determine Whether Your Salmon Is Spoiled?
When you’re looking to determine whether your salmon is spoiled, the most reliable way to check is by using your nose.
Fresh salmon should have a mild, fishy smell that will be manageable.
If you detect an off-putting odor when smelling your salmon, it’s likely gone bad and should be discarded.
Additionally, pay attention to the color of your salmon. Fresh salmon has a pinkish-orange hue that can fade to brown or gray when it’s spoiled.
Spoiled salmon may also have an unnatural slimy feel, and its flesh will usually flake apart easily when touched.
If you see any discoloration, slime, or strange odors from your salmon, it’s best to avoid consuming it.
Finally, you should use the sell-by date as a general guideline for determining whether your salmon is safe.
If the sell-by date has passed and you need clarification on the condition of your salmon, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and not consume it.
[display-posts id=”373″ image_size=”thumbnail” posts_per_page=”1″]
How Should You Store Salmon?
When it comes to storing salmon, it is important to keep the following tips in mind:
– Refrigerate Fresh Salmon Immediately – Fresh salmon should be refrigerated immediately after purchasing and kept at a temperature of 40°F or below.
It should also be wrapped securely, either in wax paper or aluminum foil.
– Freeze Salmon for Long-Term Storage – If you want to store salmon for a longer period, it should be frozen.
Pack the salmon in an airtight bag or container with as little air as possible, and place it into the freezer.
Remember to label the package with the date before freezing.
– Cooked Salmon Can be Refrigerated – Cooked salmon will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days.
To store cooked salmon, allow it to cool and place into an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic or aluminum foil before refrigerating.
Cooked Salmon
How Should You Reheat Salmon?
When reheating salmon, the best way is to use a low-and-slow method. This will preserve the flavor, texture and moisture of the fish.
An oven offers one of the most foolproof methods for heating up cooked salmon without drying it out.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Place the salmon fillet onto a baking sheet, drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil, and sprinkle it with a little bit of salt.
Place the baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
You can also use your microwave to reheat salmon, although it is not ideal.
Place the salmon onto a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel.
Heat in 30-second intervals, flipping the salmon halfway through until it’s heated to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
[display-posts id=”387″ image_size=”thumbnail” posts_per_page=”1″]
Tips For Storing Salmon In The Fridge
- Choose fresh salmon with firm, glossy flesh and even color. Avoid purchasing fish that looks dry or smells off.
- Wrap the salmon in plastic wrap or place it in a covered container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods in your fridge.
- Place the wrapped salmon on the fridge’s bottom shelf to prevent it from coming into direct contact with drips or spills.
- Store the salmon in the refrigerator for up to two days, or freeze for up to three months.
- When defrosting frozen salmon, place it on a plate in the fridge overnight and cook within 24 hours of thawing.
- Always cook the salmon immediately after thawing to prevent spoilage and food-borne illness.
Recipes For Frozen Salmon
– Salmon Avocado Bowl: Start by cooking the salmon in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s cooked through.
Once done, remove from heat and flake with a fork.
Combine cooked salmon, avocado chunks, diced tomatoes, cucumber slices, feta cheese, olive oil, and freshly squeezed lemon juice in a bowl. Top with fresh herbs, and enjoy!
– Salmon Veggie Skewers: Cut frozen salmon into 1-inch cubes and thread them onto skewers with your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers, onions, zucchini or mushrooms.
Grill the skewers over medium heat until the salmon is cooked and the vegetables are lightly charred. Serve with a side of teriyaki sauce or your favorite dip.
– Salmon Cucumber Wrap: Place a sheet of nori on a flat surface and top with cooked frozen salmon, sliced cucumbers and any other desired toppings such as avocado slices, sriracha or mayonnaise. Roll up the wrap and enjoy.
– Salmon Poke Bowl: Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add cubed frozen salmon.
Cook until the salmon is cooked through, about 4 minutes.
Meanwhile, chop up your favorite mix of fresh vegetables such as cucumbers, carrots, radishes or edamame beans.
Place cooked salmon in a bowl with the vegetables and add your favorite sauces such as soy sauce, mirin or sesame oil.
Salmon Poke Bowl
Nutrition Facts For Cooked Salmon
Serving size: 3 ounces (85g)
Calories: 171
Total Fat: 9.3g
Saturated Fat: 1.8g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.6g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.3g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 73mg
Potassium: 364mg
Total Carbohydrates: 0g
Protein: 22.6g
Vitamin A: 4%
Vitamin C: 1%
Calcium: 0%
Iron: 3%
[display-posts id=”422″ image_size=”thumbnail” posts_per_page=”1″]
Common Mistakes To Avoid About How Long Does Salmon Last In The Fridge
– Storing Salmon in the Freezer: Many people assume that salmon can be stored in the freezer, but this is only sometimes a safe storage method.
Freezing can cause the texture of salmon to become mushy and unpalatable.
The best way to store salmon is in the fridge at a temperature between 34-38°F (1-3°C).
– Storing Uncooked Salmon for Too Long: Cooked salmon can last up to three days in the fridge, while uncooked salmon should be consumed within two days.
If you cannot eat it within that time frame, freeze it and use it before the “use by” date on its packaging.
– Not Drying the Fish Before Storing: This is an important step for preventing the growth of bacteria on your salmon.
Take a paper towel and pat down the fish to absorb any extra moisture that may have accumulated during transport or when you took it out of its packaging.
– Not Storing Cooked Salmon Separately: Always store cooked salmon separately from uncooked salmon to avoid cross-contamination.
– Not Checking the Use-By Date: Before storing salmon, always check the use-by date on its packaging and make sure it is within a suitable time frame for you to eat or freeze it before it goes bad.
FAQs
Why Should Cooked Salmon Be Refrigerated?
Cooked salmon should be refrigerated to prevent the risk of food poisoning.
Salmon can quickly spoil if not stored properly, as bacteria can grow on the fish and cause illness.
Refrigerating cooked salmon will slow this process down so that it remains safe for consumption for longer periods.
Can I Put Cooked Salmon In The Fridge?
Yes, cooked salmon can be safely stored in the refrigerator.
Store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil so that no odors or flavors from other foods contaminate the salmon.
Is It Possible To Refreeze Salmon?
No, you should not refreeze salmon. This can lead to the growth of bacteria, making the fish unsafe to eat.
If you need to reheat cooked salmon safely in the oven or on the stovetop.
Can Salmon Spoil In The Refrigerator?
Yes, salmon can spoil in the refrigerator. It’s best to use it within two days of purchase for optimal freshness.
If you’re unsure how long it has been in your fridge, check the “sell by” date on the package when you buy it and consume it before then.
Can You Consume Cooked Salmon That Is Four Days Old?
Unfortunately, it is not recommended to consume cooked salmon that is four days old.
In general, cooked salmon should be consumed within three days of cooking.
After this time frame, the quality of your cooked salmon may start to deteriorate and potentially lead to foodborne illness.
[display-posts id=”526″ image_size=”thumbnail” posts_per_page=”1″]
Can Salmon Be Eaten After Five Days In The Refrigerator?
No, eating salmon after five days in the refrigerator is not recommended.
Can Cooked Salmon Be Frozen?
Yes, cooked salmon can be frozen. For optimal storage time, consume the salmon within four months of freezing.
In The Refrigerator, How Long Will Raw Salmon Last?
Raw salmon will last in the refrigerator for up to two days. If you plan on keeping it longer, it is best to freeze it.
Can I Eat Fish That Is Three Days Old?
Eating fish three days old is not recommended, as it may have been exposed to potential toxins or bacteria.
Discarding any fish left in the refrigerator for more than two days is best.
Can Eating Spoiled Salmon Cause Food Poisoning?
Yes, eating spoiled salmon can cause food poisoning.
Symptoms of food poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever.
Can Cooked Salmon Be Reheated?
Yes, cooked salmon can be reheated.
To do so, heat it in a preheated oven for about 10 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit or in a microwave for about 4 minutes.
Furthermore, reheat it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
[display-posts id=”582″ image_size=”thumbnail” posts_per_page=”1″]
Can I Consume Cooked Salmon That Is Five Days Old?
It is not recommended to consume cooked salmon that is five days old.
After being cooked, the salmon can only be stored in the refrigerator for three to four days before it spoils.
If the salmon has been stored for longer than four days, it would be best to discard it.
Can I Eat Salmon That Has Been Cooked On The Cold Side?
If the salmon has been cooked on the cold side, it is safe to consume as long as it is properly cooked.
However, consuming cold-side cooked salmon over two days old is not recommended.
The longer the salmon sits, the higher the chance it develops bacteria that can make you sick.
How Long Does Frozen Cooked Salmon Keep In The Refrigerator?
Frozen cooked salmon can last up to two months in the refrigerator.
Be sure to store it properly, wrapped tightly, and use it within that time for optimal freshness.
Conclusion: How Long Does Salmon Last In The Fridge?
Salmon can last up to two days in the refrigerator if stored correctly.
Always store your salmon in an airtight container or a vacuum-sealed bag to ensure maximum quality and freshness.
Additionally, it is important to wrap the salmon in plastic to prevent cross-contamination with other foods in your refrigerator.
Keep the temperature of your fridge between 34 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal storage of your fish.
Finally, always throw away any fish sitting at room temperature for over two hours.
Following these tips will ensure you get the most out of your salmon and can enjoy it to its fullest!
