Defrosted salmon can last 1-2 days in the fridge, but it depends on a few factors. Here is a quick overview of how long defrosted salmon can keep in the refrigerator and what affects its shelf life.
Quick Answer
Defrosted raw salmon will keep for:
- 1-2 days in the fridge
- 3-4 months in the freezer
The shelf life depends on how it was defrosted, how it was stored, and how fresh it was when frozen. Salmon that was frozen when extremely fresh will last a bit longer. Follow the defrosting, storage, and food safety guidelines for best quality.
How Long Does Defrosted Salmon Last in the Fridge?
Raw salmon that has been defrosted in the refrigerator can keep for an additional 1 to 2 days in the fridge before cooking. If it was thawed quickly under cold running water, it can keep for 24 hours.
Here are more details on how long defrosted raw salmon will last refrigerated:
| Defrosting Method | Fridge Life After Thawing |
|---|---|
| In refrigerator (40°F) | 1-2 days |
| Cold water | 24 hours |
| Microwave | Cook immediately |
As you can see, the thawing method impacts the shelf life since faster thawing can start bacteria growth. Salmon defrosted in the refrigerator lasts longer since the chilled environment slows bacteria growth.
Factors That Shorten Shelf Life
There are a few factors that can decrease the fridge life of defrosted salmon. Make sure to observe the raw salmon for any signs of spoilage.
- Temperature – Refrigerate at 40°F or below. Higher temps promote bacteria growth.
- Freezer storage time – Longer frozen storage times decrease shelf life.
- Thawing time – Quick thawing can shorten shelf life.
- Handling – Poor hygiene when handling salmon spreads bacteria.
How to Store Defrosted Salmon in the Fridge
To get the maximum shelf life, store thawed salmon properly in the refrigerator:
- Place salmon in a container or sealed bag.
- Store at 40°F or below.
- Place salmon on a plate to catch leaks if not in a sealed container.
- Use within 1-2 days.
How to Tell If Defrosted Salmon Is Bad
Check the salmon for signs of spoilage before cooking or eating. Here are ways to tell if defrosted salmon has gone bad:
- Slimy texture and milky color
- Fishy or ammonia smell
- Discoloration; gray, brown, or yellow tints
- Dry, flaky flesh
Trust your senses. If it smells, looks, or feels bad then it has spoiled. Some discoloration and dryness along the edges can be normal. But if the flesh is very dry throughout or has an unpleasant odor, it’s best to discard it.
How Long Does Cooked Salmon Last in the Fridge?
Cooked salmon that has been thawed and cooked will keep for 3 to 4 days refrigerated. Store leftovers in a sealed container to extend the shelf life. Here are the fridge and freezer timelines for cooked salmon:
| Salmon Type | Refrigerator | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Freshly cooked | 3-4 days | 2-3 months |
| Leftovers | 3-4 days | 2-3 months |
The freezer time is for quality only. Cooked salmon stored continuously frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely, but the quality slowly diminishes over time. For best flavor and texture, use cooked frozen salmon within 2-3 months.
How to Store Cooked Salmon in the Fridge
Keep cooked salmon fresh by proper storage:
- Store in airtight containers.
- Seal storage bags, removing excess air.
- Refrigerate at 40°F or colder.
- Use within 3-4 days.
How to Tell If Cooked Salmon Has Gone Bad
Check cooked salmon for the following signs of spoilage before eating:
- Dry or slimy texture
- White or gray discoloration
- Fishy or sour odor
- Mold growth
Cooked salmon can dry out in the fridge but shouldn’t have an unpleasant smell or visible mold. Over time, the color may fade or turn more grayish. Discard cooked salmon that has an off smell or appearance.
How to Freeze and Thaw Salmon Safely
Freezing and thawing salmon properly helps maintain quality and reduces waste. Here are some safe freezing and thawing tips:
Freezing Salmon
- Spread fish pieces out in freezer bags or containers.
- Remove excess air and seal tightly.
- Label with name and date.
- Freeze at 0°F or below.
- Use within 3-4 months for best quality.
Thawing Salmon
- Refrigerator – Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Cold Water – Submerge sealed package in cold water, changing water every 30 mins.
- Microwave – Thaw on defrost setting if applicable, then cook immediately.
Avoid thawing at room temperature as this allows bacteria growth. Cook immediately after microwave thawing.
How Long Does Salmon Last in the Fridge After Opening?
Pre-packaged raw salmon that has been opened will keep refrigerated for the following timespan:
| Salmon Type | Refrigerator After Opening |
|---|---|
| Smoked salmon | 3 to 5 days |
| Gravlax (cured) | 5 to 7 days |
| Vacuum-sealed fresh salmon | 2 to 3 days |
These timelines refer to factory-sealed salmon packs. Once opened, reseal and store in the fridge. Discard if you see any ooze, goo, or slime.
Signs of Spoilage After Opening
Check opened pre-packaged salmon for the following signs of spoilage:
- Sliminess
- Fishy ammonia smell
- Gray, brown, or yellow discoloration
- Mold growth
Trust your nose and eyes to determine if refrigerated pre-packaged salmon has spoiled after opening. When unsure, remember the saying “when in doubt, throw it out.”
Tips for Storing Salmon in the Fridge
Follow these storage tips to keep fresh and defrosted salmon safe and extend the shelf life:
- Place salmon in sealed containers or bags.
- Store on plates to catch leaks if not in a sealed container.
- Keep raw salmon separate from cooked salmon and other foods.
- Refrigerate at 40°F or below soon after thawing or opening.
- Use within recommended fridge time (1-4 days for raw, 3-4 days cooked).
- Check the sell-by date if purchasing refrigerated salmon.
How Long Does Salmon Last in the Freezer?
Both raw and cooked salmon can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months for optimal quality. Here are the freezer timelines for salmon:
| Salmon Type | Freezer Storage Time |
|---|---|
| Raw salmon | 2 to 3 months |
| Smoked salmon | 2 months |
| Cooked salmon | 2 to 3 months |
Frozen at 0°F, salmon can technically last indefinitely past the recommended times. However, the texture and flavor will become lower quality over time.
For peak quality, stick to the recommended freezer times. Portion the fish into meal sizes before freezing if you won’t use a large package within 2-3 months.
Signs of Spoilage in Frozen Salmon
Check frozen salmon for the following signs of spoilage before cooking:
- Odor and slime when thawing
- Unusual dry, pale color
- Extreme freezer burn
- Ice crystals inside package or fish
A little frozen ice on salmon is normal but large crystallized areas indicate freezer damage. Discard salmon with an off odor or any signs of spoilage after thawing.
Conclusion
Defrosted salmon can keep for 1-2 days in the refrigerator. Cooked salmon lasts 3-4 days. For long term storage, freeze salmon for 2-3 months. Check for spoilage signs like odor, slime, and texture when thawing or opening packaged salmon. Follow the recommended fridge and freezer storage times for salmon to have the best flavor, texture, and safety.