Fresh salmon is generally considered a healthy protein that’s high in essential omega-3 fatty acids. If you’re wondering how long cooked salmon can stay fresh in your fridge, you’re not alone. Follow our guide to ensure you get maximum freshness out of your stored salmon.
Understanding the Shelf Life of Cooked Salmon
How long will cooked salmon last in the fridge? Well, it depends on a few factors like: how it’s stored, the temperature of your fridge, and the freshness of the salmon before it was cooked. Here’s a quick guide:
Fridge Shelf Life
Cooked salmon can have a refrigerator shelf life of two to three days if it’s stored properly. If you want to keep it longer, you can store it in the freezer, where it can last up to 3 months. However, freezing can affect the flavor and texture of the fish.
Correct Storage
Proper storage helps to increase the shelf life and maintains the quality of the fish. As soon as those leftovers have been cooked, the salmon should be put into an airtight container and placed in the fridge once it has cooled down to room temperature.
About Temperature
The temperature of your refrigerator is crucial for keeping your cooked salmon fresher for longer. Keep it at a consistent temperature at or below 40°F/4°C to prevent bacterial growth. If the temperature is too high, your salmon can spoil faster than you might expect.
How to Store Cooked Salmon
Storing cooked salmon is pretty simple, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind:
Step 1: Allow Salmon to Cool to Room Temperature
Before storing cooked salmon, it is best to let it cool down to room temperature. Placing hot or warm salmon in the fridge may cause heat to build-up within the container, leading to bacterial growth or spoilage within a short period of time.
Step 2: Wrap the Salmon Carefully
Use aluminum foil or an airtight container to protect the cooked salmon from contamination. It’s important to use something that can seal tightly to prevent air and bacteria from affecting the fish. Alternatively, you can use a vacuum sealer to prerogative that your salmon remains fresh for longer.
Step 3: Store in the Fridge
Once you’ve wrapped it carefully, put the salmon in the fridge. The salmon should be refrigerated at or below 40°F/4°C. If possible, keep it at the bottom of the fridge in a place where it cannot get crushed or punctured. This will help to minimize the risk of contamination and odor absorption.
How to Tell if Cooked Salmon Has Gone Bad
Despite your best efforts, it can be difficult to tell if cooked salmon has gone bad. Here are a few signs to look out for:
- A sour smell coming from the salmon
- A slimy or sticky texture
- Discoloration or a change in color
- Mold or white spots on the surface of the fish
If you notice any of those signs, discard the salmon. It is best to use your sense of smell and sight when checking the quality of your cooked salmon or any other food item before consuming.
Can You Eat Cooked Salmon After Its Use-By Date?
A “use by” date means that the food item is not safe to consume after that date. The use by date is an important guide for perishable foods such as salmon. You should not eat cooked salmon after its use-by-date. It is best to dispose of it and avoid consumption in order to prevent food poisoning.
The Bottom Line
Storing cooked salmon can keep it fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Ensure that the salmon has cooled down to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. Store the salmon in the coldest part of the fridge, below 40°F/4°C. Look out for any signs of spoilage and discard any that are not fresh. Be sure to follow these tips to keep your cooked salmon fresher for longer!
Most Common Questions and Answers Related to How long does cooked salmon keep in the fridge
- Q: Can you freeze cooked salmon?
- A: Yes, you can freeze cooked salmon for up to 3 months. However, the taste and texture may not be the same after it is thawed.
- Q: How do I reheat cooked salmon?
- A: You can reheat cooked salmon by using the microwave, oven or pan. Be sure to heat salmon to 165°F/75°C
- Q: How long will cooked salmon last in the freezer?
- A: Cooked salmon can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Q: How do I know if my cooked salmon has gone bad?
- A: If you notice a sour smell, slimy texture, discoloration or mold spots on the surface of the fish, discard it.
- Q: Can I eat cooked salmon after the use-by-date?
- A: No, it is not safe to eat cooked salmon after the use-by-date.
- Q: Can I store cooked salmon in the same container as raw salmon?
- A: It is not advisable to store cooked and raw salmon in the same container. Doing so can increase the risk of contamination and spoilage.
References
- “Safe Minimum Cooking Temperatures.” Foodsafety.gov. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. https://www.foodsafety.gov/food-safety-charts/safe-minimum-cooking-temperature
- “Salmon: FAQs.” Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/salmon-faq
- “Store Leftovers Safely.” Foodsafety.gov. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. https://www.foodsafety.gov/food-safety-charts/store-leftovers-safely
- “How Long Does Cooked Salmon Last in the Fridge or Freezer?” Eat by Date. https://www.eatbydate.com/proteins/fish/