Discover the shelf life of salmon in the fridge and how to keep it fresh longer. Get tips on how to tell if salmon is bad and how to avoid spoilage.
Salmon is a nutritious and delectable fish beloved by millions around the world. But, like all food items it has a shelf life; thus it’s essential to know how long salmon will remain fresh in your refrigerator to maximize its taste and freshness. In this article we’ll look into how long salmon stays fresh in the fridge as well as other questions related to it.
How Long Does Fresh Salmon Last in the Fridge?
When storing fresh salmon in the fridge, several factors such as its quality, storage conditions and type must be taken into account. On average, fresh salmon can last up to two days when properly stored in a fridge.
Factors Affecting the Shelf Life of Salmon
Quality of the Fish
The quality of the fish plays a vital role in determining how long it can last in the fridge. If the fish is fresh , it can last longer than fish that is not fresh or of poor quality. It is essential to buy salmon from a reputable supplier who sells fresh and high-quality fish.
Storage Conditions
According to FDA: “If seafood will be used within 2 days after purchase, store it in a clean refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F or below“
The storage conditions can also impact the shelf longevity of salmon. If the salmon is kept in the right conditions and in the proper manner it will last longer. The ideal temperature to store the salmon ranges from 32degF up to 38degF (0degC to 3.3degC). It is ideal to keep fish in an airtight vessel, or wrap it in aluminum foil.th.
Type of Salmon
Different varieties of salmon have distinct shelf lifespans. For instance, Coho and Pink salmon have shorter shelf lives as compared to other types of salmon. On the other hand, Sockeye as well as Chinook Salmon have longer shelf time as compared to other salmon species.
How to Store Salmon Properly in the Fridge?
To store salmon properly in the fridge, follow these steps:
- Rinse with cold water then pat it dry with paper towels.
- Wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. storage it airtight in an airtight container.
- Label the container with the date of storage for easy reference.
- Place the salmon in the coldest part of your fridge, such as the back or bottom shelf.
How to Tell if Salmon has Gone Bad?
Salmon is a highly perishable fish, and if not stored correctly can spoil quickly. Consuming spoiled salmon can lead to food poisoning and serious health complications; thus, it’s essential to know how to detect when it has gone bad before consuming it.
A sour smell
When determining if salmon has gone bad, the first thing to check for is its smell. Fresh salmon usually has a subtle ocean-like aroma; however, if it smells sour or pungent, then it could have been spoiled. Furthermore, if it smells like ammonia or has an off-putting fishy, rancid smell, then it is unfit for consumption.
Slimy texture: Another way to tell if salmon has gone bad is by looking at its appearance. Fresh salmon has a bright pink or orange color, depending on the species, but if it appears dull, grayish-brown, or has a slimy texture, it is likely spoiled. The flesh should also be firm and should not have any discoloration.
A grayish-brown color: You can also use your sense of touch to determine if salmon has gone bad. Fresh salmon should feel firm and should not leave an indentation when you press it with your finger. If the flesh feels mushy or falls apart easily, it is not safe to eat.
Taste test: Finally, you can use the taste test to determine if salmon has gone bad; however, this is not recommended. If the salmon has a sour, bitter or metallic taste then it likely has been spoiled and should be thrown out immediately.
How long can you freeze salmon
When freezing salmon, its shelf life depends on storage conditions. Generally speaking, salmon can be kept frozen up to six months if properly sealed in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
How to Thaw Frozen Salmon?
To allow frozen salmon to thaw it is advised to move it into the refrigerator and let it slowly melt over the course of a few hours. If you’re needing to hurry it is also possible to thaw fish by placing it into a bowl filled with cold water. Do not thaw the it at room temperature since it increases the risk of spoilage and bacterial growth.
FAQs
1. Can you eat salmon that has gone bad?
No, it is not safe to eat salmon that has gone bad. Discard any salmon that has a sour smell, slimy texture, or grayish-brown color.
2. How long can you keep cooked salmon in the fridge?
Cooked salmon can last up to four days in the fridge if stored correctly.
3. Can you refreeze salmon after it has been thawed?
No, it is not safe to refreeze salmon after it has been thawed.
4. How do you know when salmon is fully cooked?
Salmon is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Can you cook salmon straight from the freezer?
Yes, you can cook salmon straight from the freezer, but it will take longer to cook.
Conclusion
Knowing how long salmon remains fresh in the fridge is necessary for you to consume it safely and fresh. Salmon can last up to three days when stored correctly at or below 40degF (4degC). If not kept correctly, it could spoil quickly and lead to food poisoning and health issues.
Salmon can be frozen for up to six months. Before freezing, wrap the fish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When thawing, place in the fridge overnight; do not thaw at room temperature as this promotes bacterial growth.
Always inspect the smell, appearance, texture and taste of salmon before consumption; discard it if it appears spoiled. With proper storage and handling you can maximize your salmon’s delicious taste and health benefits.
