Salmon that has been vacuum-sealed and thawed can last 3-4 days in the refrigerator before going bad. However, there are some important factors that affect how long thawed salmon will stay fresh and safe to eat.
What is vacuum-sealed salmon?
Vacuum-sealed salmon is fresh salmon that has been sealed in an airtight plastic bag with most of the air removed. This packing method helps inhibit bacteria growth and oxidation that leads to spoilage. Vacuum-sealing gives salmon a longer shelf life compared to simply wrapping it in plastic wrap or butcher paper.
You can find vacuum-packed salmon in the refrigerated seafood section at many grocery stores. It is also commonly frozen and shipped to consumers who order salmon online.
How to store thawed vacuum-packed salmon
Once opened, vacuum-sealed salmon should be used right away or transferred to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air from the container as possible before sealing and storing in the refrigerator.
Keep the thawed salmon towards the back of the top shelf of the fridge, which tends to be the coldest area. Avoid storing it in the door where the temperature fluctuates more.
Signs salmon has gone bad
Here are some signs that thawed, vacuum-packed salmon has spoiled and is no longer safe to eat:
- Fishy, ammonia-like odor
- Slimy texture and mushy consistency
- Discoloration and graying on the flesh
- Dry, tacky surface
- Dull, fading pink/orange color
- White patches or film on the salmon
If your thawed salmon displays any of these characteristics, it is best to throw it out. Do not rely on smell alone since spoiled salmon does not always give off an unpleasant odor.
How long does thawed vacuum-packed salmon last in the fridge?
Properly stored, thawed vacuum-packed salmon will typically last for:
- 3-4 days past the sell by or use by date on the original packaging
- 3-4 days after thawing in the refrigerator
This salmon should be safe if it has been continuously refrigerated at 40°F or below and there are no signs of spoilage. The texture and moisture content may start to degrade after 3-4 days but it should still be edible.
Factors that affect fridge life
There are several variables that can influence how long thawed vacuum-sealed salmon will keep in the fridge:
| Factor | Effect on Fridge Life |
|---|---|
| Temperature | Higher fridge temp = shorter shelf life. Store at 40°F or below. |
| Opening packaging | Once opened and exposed to air, salmon lifespan decreases. |
| Type of salmon | Fattier salmon like king and sockeye don’t last as long as leaner Atlantic salmon. |
| Freshness when frozen | Salmon frozen at peak freshness lasts longer thawed than salmon frozen past its prime. |
| Handling after thawing | Contamination from handling reduces fridge life. Use clean utensils and containers. |
Freezing and thawing vacuum-packed salmon
To maximize the shelf life of your vacuum-packed salmon:
- Keep frozen until ready to use. Freezing stops the aging process.
- Thaw in the refrigerator, not at room temperature or in warm water. Slow thawing in the fridge helps prevent bacterial growth.
- Cook or eat thawed salmon within 3-4 days.
- Don’t refreeze salmon after thawing.
How to tell if thawed salmon is still good?
Here are some ways to determine if thawed vacuum-sealed salmon is still safe and good to eat:
- Check the sell by or use by date – salmon is likely fine if still within 3-4 days of this date
- Give it a sniff – discard if it smells unpleasant or fishy
- Look for sliminess – thick slimy texture means spoilage
- Observe flesh color and texture – faded color or dry, mushy consistency signals spoilage
- Find white filming or patches – this can indicate bacteria growth
When in doubt, remember the old adage – if it smells bad or looks weird, throw it out! Better to be safe than sick when dealing with seafood.
How to store leftover thawed salmon
For storing any leftover thawed vacuum-packed salmon:
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or put in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Use for salmon salads, sandwiches, casseroles, or salmon patties.
- Place cooked salmon in an air-tight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days.
- Freeze for longer term storage – freeze cooked salmon for 2-3 months and raw salmon for 4-6 months (if thawed properly).
Always label leftovers with the date and use within the recommended fridge life guidelines. Discard if you notice any sour, fishy odors or other signs of spoilage.
Can you refreeze thawed salmon?
It is not recommended to refreeze previously frozen and thawed salmon. Refreezing thawed salmon can result in poor texture and moisture loss.
However, if salmon was thawed in the refrigerator and has not been kept thawed for more than 1-2 days, it may be acceptable to refreeze it. Freeze quickly by placing in a single layer to ensure fast freezing.
Refrozen salmon is best used for cooking rather than eating raw. Mark the package with the refreeze date and use within 3 months for best quality.
Summary
- Thawed, vacuum-packed salmon will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- Store thawed salmon in an airtight container in the coldest part of the fridge.
- Signs of spoiled salmon include off smells, dull or slimy flesh, and discoloration.
- Freezing stops the aging process; thaw frozen salmon in the fridge before use.
- Eat or cook refrigerated salmon within 3-4 days for safety and quality.
- Leftover cooked salmon keeps 2-3 days in the fridge or 2-3 months in the freezer.
- Refreezing thawed salmon can affect texture but may be safe if done properly.
Conclusion
Vacuum-sealed salmon offers extended shelf life compared to regular salmon packaging. However, once opened and thawed, it should be eaten within 3-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. Freezing thawed salmon is not recommended, so only thaw what you plan to consume shortly. With proper refrigerated storage, thawed vacuum-packed salmon stays fresh and usable for several days past its sell by date.