The Importance of Proper Storage
When it comes to the question of how long does salmon last in the fridge, proper storage plays an absolutely crucial role. To extend the shelf life of your salmon, it is important to properly store it as soon as it arrives. It should be kept at a temperature below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, as this is the optimal temperature to slow down the growth of bacteria.
Salmon should be placed in a sealed container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. This not only helps to keep the fish fresh but also prevents it from absorbing other flavors from your fridge. If the salmon is not properly stored, it may not even last a couple of days in the fridge before it starts to spoil.
The Role of the ‘Sell By Date’ and the Expiration Date
Salmon usually has a sell by date and an expiration date on the package. The former is intended mainly for the retailer, telling him or her how long to display the product for sale. It is best to consume the salmon by the date on the package labeled ‘sell by’. After this date, the freshness of the salmon may begin to decline.
The expiration date, on the other hand, is the last date a product should be used while at peak quality. It’s a good practice to heed these dates but remember, they are not infallible predictions on when the salmon is bad. Safety can depend on many factors.
Salmon’s Shelf Life at Room Temperature
Salmon does not last long at room temperature. Bacteria grows rapidly at temperatures between 40 and 140 °F. After 2 hours at room temperature, the risk of food poisoning significantly increases.
In case the salmon was left at room temperature for more than 2 hours, it’s better not get sick and throw it away. So, to avoid waste and ensure safety, place your salmon in the fridge within 1-2 hours of purchase.
Extending the Shelf Life of Salmon
In addition to proper storage, there are other ways of extending the shelf life of salmon. One of the most effective is freezing. If you cannot consume the salmon within 1-2 days, consider storing your salmon in the freezer.
Freezing does not kill all bacteria, but it does stop their growth. It’s a practical way of keeping the salmon flavorful and safe to consume for up to several months, extending its shelf life dramatically.
How to Spot a Bad Salmon
To determine whether salmon is bad, check for any changes in smell, color, and texture. A strong, sour smell is a clear sign of spoiled salmon. The color of the fish can also indicate its state – if the vibrant pink or red is changing to brown or grey, it might be time to discard it.
The texture of the fish can also be an indicator. Healthy salmon is firm and should spring back when you press it lightly. If it feels slimy or tacky, it might be best to toss it out.
Guidelines for Leftover Salmon Dishes
How you handle a salmon dish will also affect how long it lasts. Leftovers should be placed in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking. For takeouts and home-cooked meals, make sure they aren’t left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Leftover salmon dishes can be safely kept in the fridge for 3-4 days. After that, the risk of food poisoning starts to increase.
Importance of Consuming within Few Days of Purchase
When it comes to fresh salmon, days of purchase matter significantly. Salmon is best consumed within 1-2 days of purchase, while it’s at its peak of freshness.
But even if your salmon is a few days past this window of time, do not discard it solely based on time. Always assess the fish’s overall condition before throwing it away.
Preventing Food Poisoning
Preventing food poisoning from happening should be everyone’s priority when handling any food, not just salmon. Since bacteria thrive at room temperatures, always remember to refrigerate your food properly and swiftly after purchase.
Remember to always keep your hands and the utensils you are using clean. Also, ensure that your fridge is set at below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Storing the Salmon: Summary
Finally, remember that how long a salmon lasts depends on multiple factors, particularly how it is stored. Stored in the fridge, salmon can last up to 1-2 days, while proper freezing can extend this period much longer.
FAQ
How many days can salmon last in the fridge?
Typically, salmon can last 1-2 days in the fridge.
Is salmon still safe to eat after the sell by date?
The sell by date is mostly for the retails, but it is best to eat the salmon by this date.
How can I extend the shelf life of salmon?
You can extend the shelf life of salmon by freezing it properly.
Why did my salmon get bad so soon?
Salmon can get bad soon due to improper storage.
What temperature should salmon be stored at?
Salmon should be stored at a temperature below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I eat salmon left at room temperature?
If salmon was left at room temperature for more than 2 hours, it’s not safe to eat.
How can I tell if salmon is bad?
Changes in smell, color, and texture are indicators that salmon is bad.
Can leftover salmon dishes be stored in the fridge?
Yes, leftover salmon dishes can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.
How many days after purchase should I eat the salmon?
Salmon should ideally be eaten within 1-2 days of purchase.
How can I properly store salmon to prevent food poison?
Proper storage, quick refrigeration, cleanliness while handling the salmon are key to prevent food poisoning.
