How long raw shrimp can stay in the fridge will depend on how the shrimp was thawed. If you let frozen raw shrimp thaw in the fridge for an extra day or two before cooking it, it’s safe to keep. It can also be safely refrozen within that time frame. However, if raw shrimp was defrosted in cold water or the microwave, it should be cooked right away.
Shrimp is a cherished ingredient for many home cooks. Its versatility allows it to star in appetizers, mains, salads, and more. However, properly storing thawed shrimp can be tricky. So how long can defrosted shrimp stay fresh in the refrigerator?
As an avid home cook and seafood enthusiast, I used to wonder the same thing. Through research and testing, I’ve determined the fridge shelf life for thawed shrimp. Keep reading for a detailed look at how to store defrosted shrimp to optimize freshness and avoid waste.
How Long Does Thawed Shrimp Last Refrigerated?
The shelf life for thawed, raw shrimp stored in the fridge is:
- 1 to 2 days maximum for best quality
The key is storing the thawed shrimp properly at a food-safe fridge temperature. Raw shrimp is highly perishable, so time is of the essence.
Safe handling is also essential, as raw seafood can contain harmful bacteria Observe the 1 to 2 day fridge life for defrosted shrimp to ensure it stays fresh.
Refresher on Thawing Shrimp
Before discussing fridge storage let’s review proper thawing methods
- Refrigerator: Thaw overnight in a bowl in the fridge.
- Cold Water: Place frozen shrimp in a leakproof bag and submerge in cold water. Change water every 30 minutes.
- Microwave: Use the defrost setting in short bursts, checking often. Don’t cook the shrimp.
Once thawed using one of these methods, keep the shrimp chilled
Proper Storage of Thawed Shrimp
Follow these steps exactly for storing thawed shrimp in the fridge:
- Keep raw shrimp in its original packaging or an airtight container. This prevents freezer burn.
- Place shrimp in the coldest part of the fridge, usually the back.
- Set fridge to 40°F or below. Use a thermometer to verify the temperature.
- Use thawed shrimp within 1-2 days for optimal quality and food safety.
- Don’t refreeze previously frozen raw shrimp. This affects texture.
Storing thawed shrimp properly prevents spoilage and bacteria growth. Never leave shrimp to sit at room temperature.
How To Tell If Thawed Shrimp Is Bad
Thawed shrimp can go bad quickly if not stored properly. Watch for these signs:
- Strong, fishy odor
- Slimy texture and milky color
- Soft, mushy flesh
- Blackened areas or spotting
- Mold growth
Discard thawed shrimp immediately if you notice any of these red flags. Do not taste or cook bad shrimp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions about storing thawed shrimp:
How long can cooked shrimp stay in the fridge?
Cooked shrimp lasts 3-4 days in the fridge. Ensure it is cooled quickly before refrigerating.
Can you refreeze thawed shrimp?
It’s not recommended. Refreezing can damage texture and quality. Use thawed shrimp within 1-2 days.
Can you keep thawed shrimp at room temperature?
No, thawed shrimp should not sit at room temp for more than 2 hours maximum. Refrigerate immediately.
How do you freeze cooked shrimp?
Cool cooked shrimp rapidly, transfer to airtight containers or bags removing air, and freeze. Use within 3 months for best flavor.
Can thawed shrimp touch raw meat in the fridge?
Keep raw shrimp sealed and away from raw meat, poultry, etc. Cross-contamination risks foodborne illness.
Should thawed shrimp smell fishy?
Thawed shrimp should have a mild, ocean-like scent. An overly fishy odor means it’s started to spoil.
Following proper storage methods for thawed shrimp ensures you can enjoy its sweet, briny goodness while minimizing food safety risks. Handled carefully, thawed shrimp retains its delicate flavor and texture for brief fridge storage.
How Should Shrimp Be Stored?
Raw shrimp bought fresh should also be consumed within a day or two or put in the freezer. First, rinse the shrimp under cold, running water, then pat dry with paper towels. Put the shrimp in the coldest part of the fridge and cover them loosely with waxed paper to let air flow around them. It is also recommended to put them on a bed of ice. When you’re ready to freeze the shrimp, wrap them tightly in plastic, foil, or paper that won’t absorb water to keep the flavor. Cooked shrimp can be stored in a sealed container for three to four days, but no more.
How to Thaw Frozen Raw Shrimp
There are two suggested methods for thawing frozen raw shrimp:
Twenty-four hours before cooking, put the shrimp in a clean container and loosely cover them with plastic wrap. Place the shrimp on a lower shelf of the refrigerator to let them slowly defrost. Once thawed, the shrimp should be used within a day. Remove any liquid at the bottom of the container before cooking.
Put the shrimp in a leak-proof plastic bag and put it in a cold bowl of water. This will quickly thaw the shrimp. Change the water every 30 minutes until the shrimp are defrosted. If you use warm water, the shrimp will begin to cook. Once thawed, the shrimp should be cooked immediately.