Quick Answer
Yes, it is safe to unthaw salmon and put it back in the fridge. When thawing salmon, it is best to plan ahead and thaw it in the refrigerator, rather than at room temperature. However, if you end up needing to interrupt the thawing process, you can safely return partially thawed salmon to the fridge until you are ready to finish thawing and cook it. The key is to minimize the time the salmon spends at unsafe temperatures between 40°F and 140°F, where bacteria can multiply quickly. As long as the salmon still has ice crystals and feels cold, it should be safe to refreeze or refrigerate multiple times during the thawing process.
Thawing Salmon Safely
Thawing salmon properly is important to avoid foodborne illnesses. According to the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), there are three safe ways to thaw salmon:
- In the refrigerator – Place frozen salmon in a container to prevent cross-contamination and thaw in the fridge overnight or up to 2 days. This is the preferred method.
- In cold water – Seal salmon in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water, changing water every 30 minutes until thawed. Cook immediately.
- In the microwave – Follow microwave directions for defrosting. Cook immediately after thawing.
It is unsafe to thaw salmon at room temperature or in hot water. These methods allow the salmon to spend too much time in the “danger zone” between 40-140°F, which promotes rapid bacteria growth.
The USDA recommends limiting time between 40-140°F to no more than 2 total hours during thawing and preparation.
Can You Refreeze Thawed Salmon?
Yes, you can safely refreeze thawed salmon if it still contains ice crystals and feels refrigerated cold. According to FSIS, you can refreeze or continue thawing in the refrigerator multiple times.
However, if the salmon has been left out at room temperature for over 2 hours, it is unsafe to refreeze. At this point, bacteria may have multiplied to unsafe levels.
The best practice is to try to thaw salmon just once in the recommended methods. But interrupted thawing can be safe if you quickly return the salmon to the refrigerator or freezer.
Thawing and Refrigerating Salmon Step-by-Step
Follow these steps for safely thawing salmon and returning it to the refrigerator:
- Place frozen salmon in a bowl or container to prevent cross-contamination.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours. A thick fillet may take the full 48 hours to thaw.
- To quick thaw, seal salmon in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water. Change water every 30 minutes until thawed.
- Once thawed halfway, check thickness – it should still be icy in the center. If so, return to fridge until fully thawed.
- Do not thaw more than 2 total hours outside of the refrigerator. Time any periods at room temperature.
- Cook immediately after fully thawing, or refreeze at any point during the safe thawing process.
The most important thing is minimizing the time salmon spends at unsafe temperatures. As long as it still feels refrigerated cold, it can safely go back in the fridge or freezer multiple times during thawing.
How Long Does Thawed Salmon Last in the Fridge?
According to FSIS, thawed raw salmon that has been kept in the fridge can be stored for an additional day or two before cooking or refreezing.
Here are the refrigerator storage guidelines after thawing salmon:
| Type | Refrigerator Time Limit After Thawing |
|---|---|
| Fresh Raw Salmon | 1-2 days |
| Smoked Salmon | 3-4 days |
The FDA recommends using thawed salmon within 36 hours for best quality.
Key tips for storing thawed raw salmon:
– Keep at 40°F or below
– Place in container to prevent cross-contamination
– Use within 1-2 days for maximum freshness
– Do not refreeze thawed salmon more than once
Can You Refrigerate Cooked Salmon?
Yes, cooked salmon can be safely refrigerated for 3-4 days. According to the FDA, cooked fish will last for 3 to 4 days when properly stored and for 4 months in the freezer.
To refrigerate cooked salmon:
– Allow to cool fully, then refrigerate within 2 hours
– Place in shallow airtight container
– Use within 3-4 days
Discard any leftover cooked salmon that has been refrigerated for over 4 days.
Identifying Spoiled Salmon
Always inspect thawed salmon before cooking to ensure it is still fresh and safe to eat. Here are signs salmon has spoiled and should be discarded:
- Fishy, ammonia-like odor
- Slimy or sticky texture
- Discoloration or graying around gills
- Dull, faded appearance
- Dry, brittle flesh
Properly thawed or cooked salmon should retain a glossy, moist appearance with no strong odors.
Conclusion
It is safe to unthaw salmon in the refrigerator and return it to the fridge multiple times during the thawing process. As long as salmon still feels cold and icy, it can continue thawing in the refrigerator until fully thawed and ready to cook.
Minimize the time salmon spends between 40-140°F by:
- Thawing in the refrigerator
- Submerging in cold water if thawing faster
- Limiting refrigerator time after thawing to 1-2 days
- Cooking or refreezing immediately
Following safe handling practices will reduce the risk of foodborne illness when thawing, storing, and cooking salmon.