Quick Answer
Yes, it is safe to defrost salmon and put it back in the fridge. When defrosting salmon, it is best to plan ahead and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. However, if you need to thaw salmon quickly, you can either submerge it in cold water or microwave it until just partially thawed. Once defrosted, you can return the salmon to the fridge for 1-2 days max before cooking. Be sure to cook the salmon within that timeframe for food safety.
Detailed Answer
Salmon is a popular fish loaded with healthy omega-3 fatty acids. However, salmon is typically frozen for storage and transport. Thawing salmon properly helps retain quality and avoid foodborne illness. Here is a detailed look at the safe ways to defrost salmon and store it after thawing:
Recommended Ways to Defrost Salmon
There are three main safe methods to defrost frozen salmon fillets or steaks:
- Refrigerator Thawing: The slowest but safest method is letting the frozen salmon thaw gradually in the fridge overnight or up to 1-2 days. Place the frozen salmon in a bowl or on a plate to catch any drips as it defrosts. Once thawed, it can be stored in the fridge 1-2 days max.
- Cold Water Thawing: For faster thawing, you can submerge the frozen salmon in a bowl of cold tap water, changing the water every 30 minutes. This helps thaw salmon in 2-3 hours without letting it get too warm. Cook immediately after thawing.
- Microwave Defrosting: Microwaving partially thaws thick cuts of frozen salmon in just 5-7 minutes. Use the defrost setting at 30% power if available. Turn over halfway and check often to prevent cooking. Cook immediately after microwaving.
Never thaw salmon at room temperature or in hot water, as this encourages bacterial growth. Thawing in the fridge or cold water keeps salmon at safe temperatures below 40°F.
How Long Can Thawed Salmon Be Refrigerated?
Once thawed using a safe method, raw salmon can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days max. The FDA recommends consuming thawed fish within 1-2 days for safety and quality.
This short fridge life is due to salmon being highly perishable. Thawed salmon can harbor bacteria and start deteriorating quickly. Make sure to cook or freeze the thawed salmon within this 1-2 day period.
Here are some tips for storing thawed raw salmon in the fridge:
- Place salmon in a container or plastic bag to prevent cross-contamination with other foods.
- Keep thawed salmon towards the back of the fridge furthest from the door.
- Set the fridge to 40°F or below.
- Use thawed salmon to cook within 1-2 days, max.
Is Previously Frozen Salmon Safe to Eat?
Yes, salmon that has been properly defrosted after freezing is safe to eat. Freezing at 0°F stops bacterial growth so frozen salmon remains safe indefinitely.
Thawing and refreezing salmon reduces quality but does not make it unsafe if handled properly. The main risks with thawing salmon involve:
- Using unsafe defrosting methods that allow bacterial growth
- Storing thawed salmon too long before cooking
- Introducing cross-contamination from improper handling
As long as you thaw frozen salmon using safe methods and refrigerate it for 1-2 days max before cooking, it will be safe to eat and retain good quality.
Cooking Thawed Salmon
Raw salmon that has been defrosted should always be cooked before eating for food safety. Follow these tips for cooking thawed salmon:
- Avoid overcooking, as salmon can dry out. Cook until just opaque in the center.
- Saute, bake, broil, or grill thawed salmon. Aim for 145°F internal temperature.
- Add glazes, spices, or breading just before cooking to help flavors adhere.
- Discard any leftovers within 3-4 days.
Proper cooking destroys any harmful bacteria present in thawed salmon. Cook fresh thawed salmon right away for the best results.
Can You Refreeze Thawed Salmon?
While it’s not recommended, thawed salmon can be safely refrozen if necessary. Refreezing does negatively impact texture and moisture content. Only refreeze salmon if:
- It was thawed in the fridge no more than 1-2 days ago.
- It was kept at 40°F or less when thawed.
- No cross-contamination or mishandling occurred when thawed.
To refreeze, quickly re-freeze thawed salmon fillets or steaks within 1-2 days of first thawing:
- Pat dry with paper towels.
- Place in air-tight freezer bag or wrap in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze at 0°F or below.
- Label bag with “previously frozen” and new freeze date.
- Use within 3-4 months for best quality.
Only thaw and refreeze salmon once. The texture and moisture content will decline with each refreeze cycle. Eat refrozen salmon within 3-4 months.
Safety Tips
Follow these safety practices when thawing and refreezing salmon:
- Always wash hands, cutting boards, utensils with soap before and after handling raw salmon.
- Thaw frozen salmon in the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave only.
- Cook or refreeze thawed salmon within 1-2 days of thawing.
- When doubting salmon safety, remember “when in doubt, throw it out!”
Consuming spoiled or mishandled salmon can potentially cause food poisoning. By properly thawing, storing, and cooking salmon, you can safely enjoy its delicious flavor and healthy nutrients.
Conclusion
Defrosting and refreezing salmon can be done safely, if proper guidelines are followed. Always thaw frozen salmon in the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave – never at room temperature. Cook or refreeze thawed salmon within 1-2 days, storing it at 40°F or below. While refreezing thawed salmon can diminish quality, it can extend usability if done properly. Follow safe salmon handling practices to get the most out of this healthy, omega-3 rich fish.