Learn how to store salmon in the fridge, how long fresh and cooked salmon lasts, and how to tell if salmon has gone bad. Find out how long does salmon last in the fridge.
Salmon is a popular fish that is not only tasty but also packed with essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin B12, and Vitamin D. However, like most perishable foods, salmon has a limited shelf life, and it’s essential to know how long it can last in the fridge to avoid foodborne illness. In this article, we’ll explore how to store salmon in the fridge, how long fresh and cooked salmon lasts, and how to tell if salmon has gone bad.
How to Store Salmon in the Fridge
Proper storage of salmon is crucial to keeping it fresh for longer. Here are some guidelines to follow when storing salmon in the fridge:
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Keep it cold: Salmon should always be stored in the fridge at a temperature between 32°F and 40°F.
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Use airtight containers: Store salmon in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent air from entering.
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Store it on the bottom shelf: To avoid cross-contamination, store salmon on the bottom shelf of the fridge, away from other foods.
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Use it within two days: Fresh salmon should be consumed within two days of purchase. If you’re not planning to use it within that time, freeze it instead.
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Don’t wash it: Washing salmon before storing it can increase the risk of bacterial growth. Instead, pat it dry with paper towels before storing it in the fridge.
By following these guidelines, you can extend the shelf life of salmon in the fridge and ensure that it stays fresh and safe to eat.
Tips to Keep Salmon Fresh for Longer
In addition to proper storage, there are a few other tips you can follow to keep salmon fresh for longer:
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Freeze it: If you’re not planning to use salmon within two days of purchase, freeze it instead. Frozen salmon can last for up to six months, but it’s important to thaw it properly before cooking.
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Marinate it: Marinating salmon before cooking can help to extend its shelf life. The acid in the marinade can help to kill bacteria and prevent spoilage.
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Cook it thoroughly: Cooking salmon thoroughly can help to kill any bacteria present and prevent foodborne illness. The FDA recommends cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F.
By following these tips, you can enjoy fresh, delicious salmon for longer and reduce food waste.
How Long Does Fresh Salmon Last in the Fridge?
Fresh salmon has a limited shelf life, and it’s important to consume it before it goes bad. The shelf life of fresh salmon in the fridge depends on several factors such as its quality, storage conditions, and how fresh it was when you purchased it. In general, fresh salmon can last in the fridge for up to two days if stored properly.
To determine if fresh salmon has gone bad, look out for the following signs:
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Foul odor: Fresh salmon should have a mild, ocean-like scent. If it smells sour or unpleasant, it’s likely gone bad.
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Slimy texture: Fresh salmon should have a firm, moist texture. If it feels slimy or sticky, it’s probably gone bad.
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Discoloration: Fresh salmon should be vibrant pink or red in color. If it appears brown or gray, it’s likely gone bad.
If you notice any of these signs, discard the salmon immediately to avoid foodborne illness.
How Long Does Cooked Salmon Last in the Fridge?
If you’ve cooked salmon and have leftovers, it’s important to store them properly to ensure that they stay fresh and safe to eat. Cooked salmon can last in the fridge for up to four days if stored properly.
To store cooked salmon in the fridge, follow these guidelines:
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Cool it quickly: After cooking, allow the salmon to cool to room temperature before placing it in the fridge. This helps to prevent bacterial growth.
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Store it in an airtight container: Place the cooked salmon in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent air from entering.
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Store it on the top shelf: Store cooked salmon on the top shelf of the fridge to avoid cross-contamination.
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Reheat it properly: When reheating cooked salmon, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 165°F to kill any bacteria present.
By following these guidelines, you can extend the shelf life of cooked salmon in the fridge and enjoy delicious leftovers for days to come.
How to Tell If Salmon Has Gone Bad
Even with proper storage and handling, salmon can still spoil and become unsafe to eat. Here are some signs to look out for to determine if salmon has gone bad:
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Foul smell: If salmon has a sour or ammonia-like smell, it’s a sign that it has gone bad.
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Discoloration: Fresh salmon should have a bright pink or orange color, while spoiled salmon may appear dull or gray.
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Texture: Spoiled salmon may feel slimy or sticky to the touch, indicating that bacterial growth has occurred.
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Taste: If salmon tastes off or has a bitter aftertaste, it’s a sign that it has gone bad.
If you notice any of these signs when handling salmon, it’s best to discard it to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.
Conclusion
In summary, salmon is a delicious and nutritious fish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. However, it’s important to know how long it can last in the fridge to avoid spoilage and foodborne illness. By following proper storage guidelines, using salmon within two days of purchase, and cooking it thoroughly, you can extend its shelf life and reduce food waste. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as a foul smell or texture, it’s best to discard the salmon to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.
At Buckingham Smokehouse, we take great pride in offering high-quality smoked seafood, including our signature smoked salmon. By using only the freshest ingredients and traditional smoking methods, we ensure that our products are not only delicious but also safe to eat. So, whether you’re looking to indulge in our smoked salmon or any of our other hand-crafted smoked meats and cheeses, you can trust Buckingham Smokehouse to deliver an authentic culinary experience that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
