Maximizing the Shelf Life of Unopened Canned Shrimp

Canned shrimp can be a handy shelf-stable protein to keep in your pantry But how long does unopened canned shrimp actually last? This article covers everything you need to know about the shelf life and proper storage of unopened canned shrimp

Overview of Shelf Life for Sealed Canned Shrimp

When stored properly in a cool dry place unopened canned shrimp that has been commercially packaged can maintain best quality for about 3 to 5 years. It will generally remain safe to eat after that time, though the texture, color, or flavor may start to change.

The “Best By” dates on canned shrimp are not an indicator of when the shrimp becomes unsafe. Rather, they estimate the timeframe where the shrimp will be at peak quality when stored as recommended.

So as long as the can is not damaged in any way, unopened canned shrimp lasts a surprisingly long time in the pantry. But for best flavor and texture, it’s ideal to use it within 5 years.

How to Store Canned Shrimp for Maximum Freshness

To get the full 3 to 5 years of shelf life from your canned shrimp, be sure to store it properly:

• Keep cans in a cool, dry place – avoid storing cans in hot spots like near the oven or in direct sunlight. Heat can accelerate quality deterioration.

• Avoid humid storage areas – moisture can lead to rust and affect quality.

• Store cans off the floor on shelves or racks. This prevents accidental dents or rust from condensation.

• Check inventory and rotate stock – use oldest cans first and bring new stock to the back. Don’t leave old cans forgotten in the very back.

• Inspect condition before use – look for dents, bulges, leaks, or rust. Discard any compromised cans.

With ideal dry, room temperature storage, unopened canned shrimp stays fresh and tasty for years past its “Best By” date.

How to Identify Spoiled Canned Shrimp

Check the condition of the can and inspect the contents before use. Signs of spoiled canned shrimp include:

• Bulging or leaking can – This may indicate bacteria growth creating gas and increased pressure.

• Severe dents – Deep dents can damage the interior lining, allowing bacteria to contaminate contents.

• Rust or corrosion – This weakens the integrity of the can, which can lead to spoilage.

• Mold growth – This is visible as fuzzy spots on the shrimp flesh. Mold should not be present.

• Off odors – An unopened can should not smell unpleasant or sulfur-like when first opened.

• Change in color or texture – The shrimp flesh should not appear significantly darker, mushier, or dry.

Any cans demonstrating these signs of spoilage should be immediately discarded. Do not taste shrimp from compromised cans.

Does Canned Shrimp Expire or Go Bad After the Best By Date?

It is a common misconception that canned shrimp expires or goes bad as soon as its Best By date passes. This is not the case if it has been properly stored.

Canned shrimp is commercially sterilized during the canning process. This destroys any bacteria or pathogens that could cause foodborne illness. The sealed can then prevents new contaminants from reaching the shrimp.

So while the texture or flavor may slowly deteriorate past its peak quality period, commercially canned shrimp does not suddenly become hazardous to eat after its Best By date. Its safety depends far more on the condition of the can itself.

Well-stored cans that are free of damage or rust can be safely consumed for years after the printed Best By date. The shrimp may start to become softer and less flavorful, but it won’t make you sick even decades past its prime.

However, best practice is still to use canned items within a few years for optimal flavor. Very old cans also run a higher risk of undetected can defects that could compromise the contents over many years.

Signs that Opened Canned Shrimp Has Spoiled

Once opened, canned shrimp will only last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator before spoiling. Signs that opened canned shrimp has gone bad include:

• Sour or “off” smell
• Change in color to gray, green or black
• Soft, mushy texture
• Mold growth
• Slime formation

Discard any opened canned shrimp displaying these signs of spoilage. Do not taste or eat spoiled shrimp.

Storing Opened Canned Shrimp

To extend the shelf life of canned shrimp after opening:

• Transfer contents to a sealed airtight container or resealable bag.

• Refrigerate at 40°F or below. Keep towards the back, away from the door.

• Use within 3-4 days for best quality.

• Do not freeze previously opened canned shrimp. Freeze only unopened cans.

Proper refrigerated storage helps maximize leftover canned shrimp’s lifespan once exposed to air.

Enjoying Canned Shrimp Safely Past Its Prime

Canned shrimp that is past its prime can still be safely enjoyed if you:

• Inspect cans for damage before opening.

• Check for off odors, texture, or sliminess upon opening.

• Store opened cans in the fridge and use within 3-4 days.

• Boil or cook older shrimp thoroughly before consuming.

The canning process makes canned shrimp shelf-stable. But best practice is still to store and use cans within a few years for premium quality and flavor.

Common Questions about Unopened Canned Shrimp

How long can you keep unopened canned shrimp at room temperature?

Unopened commercially canned shrimp will stay at peak quality for about 3 to 5 years stored at room temperature. It remains safe to eat for much longer if the can is undamaged.

Does canned shrimp need to be refrigerated before opening?

No, unopened canned shrimp is shelf-stable and can be stored at room temperature. Refrigeration is only needed once opened.

Can you freeze unopened canned shrimp?

Yes, freezing unopened cans of shrimp can extend the shelf life for several years beyond the printed Best By date.

What happens if you eat expired canned shrimp?

Eating commercially canned shrimp past its Best By date is generally not hazardous if the can is undamaged and properly sealed. However, quality deteriorates over time, resulting in lower flavor and softer texture.

Does canned shrimp ever make you sick?

Not if the can is in good condition and has been stored correctly. Contamination and foodborne illness only occurs when cans are damaged, rusty, or severely dented.

How do you know if canned shrimp has gone bad?

Signs of spoiled canned shrimp include foul odors, soft texture, discoloration, rust, bulging cans, leaks, mold, and sliminess. Always inspect cans carefully and discard any that appear compromised.

With proper dry storage, unopened canned shrimp can stay fresh and delicious for 3 years or more past its printed date. Keep it in a cool pantry and use older cans first for maximum shelf life.