Canned crab meat provides a convenient and quick protein boost to salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes and more. While unopened canned crab can last for years in the pantry, its shelf life decreases rapidly once exposed to air. But with proper storage, opened canned crab can stay fresh for several days. This article covers everything you need to know about maximizing the shelf life of shelf-stable canned crab meat after opening.
An Overview of Commercially Canned Crab Meat
Commercially canned crab meat refers to preprocessed crab meat that has been cooked, picked from the shell, packaged in cans and heat sterilized. This stabilization process allows canned crab to be shelf-stable for 1-4 years when unopened.
Canned crab is a versatile pantry staple thanks to its precooked state, mild flavor and shredded texture. It can be used cold in salads or seafood cocktails. Or incorporated hot into casseroles, stir fries, pasta and more.
Common varieties of canned crab meat include white meat, backfin, claw and leg meat Premium “lump” crab meat is also available canned. With its healthful protein, minerals and omega-3s, canned crab is a quick and nutritious addition to all types of dishes.
Why the Shelf Life Shortens After Opening
While the canning process preserves canned crab meat and prolongs its shelf life, this stability relies on the can remaining unopened and intact. Once opened, oxygen and bacteria can enter and begin to break down the quality.
Exposure to air causes oxidation, which can create “tinny” metallic flavors. Bacteria may also start to multiply, causing off-odors, textures and tastes For food safety, it’s important to follow storage guidelines after opening canned crab
Refrigerator Storage Time for Opened Canned Crab
For best quality and food safety, opened canned crab meat must be stored in the refrigerator. Continuously refrigerated at 40°F or below, opened canned crab will maintain peak freshness for 3-4 days.
To slow spoilage, transfer opened crab meat into an airtight container with a well-sealed lid. Glass and plastic containers work well. Covering the surface with plastic wrap before sealing the lid adds extra protection.
Check for signs of spoilage before use, like sour odors, sliminess, stickiness or discoloration. Discard if any mold develops.
Freezer Storage to Prolong Shelf Life
For maximum shelf life, freeze opened canned crab meat in airtight containers or resealable plastic freezer bags. Continually frozen at 0°F, crab meat retains optimal quality for about 3 months.
Thaw frozen crab meat overnight in the fridge before using. To prevent moisture loss, avoid thawing at room temperature or in hot water.
While freezing is safe long-term, the thawed meat may become mushy in texture and less flavorful. It’s best to freeze smaller portions that can be used up quickly after defrosting.
Tips for Safely Enjoying Canned Crab After Its “Best By” Date
The “Best By” date on canned crab meat simply indicates peak freshness, not safety. Unopened, commercially canned crab remains safe indefinitely when stored in a cool, dry pantry.
Once opened, rely on your senses. If the canned crab smells and looks normal with no sliminess or stickiness, it can be safely enjoyed 3-4 days past its “Best By” date when refrigerated.
Discard any bulging, leaking or badly dented cans. And never eat crab meat that smells unpleasant or appears discolored or slimy. Following basic food safety practices allows you to safely enjoy canned crab beyond its suggested date.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you tell if opened canned crab meat has spoiled?
Look for off-odors, stickiness, sliminess, discoloration or mold development. Spoiled crab also smells unpleasant or “off.” Any spoiled canned crab should be immediately discarded.
Can you freeze opened canned crab meat?
Yes, opened canned crab can be frozen for up to 3 months in airtight containers or bags. This maintains quality longer but may alter the texture slightly.
Is it safe to eat canned crab meat straight from the can?
Yes, commercially canned crab is fully cooked and safe to eat straight from the can. However, it’s best to drain the liquid and rinse the meat to reduce sodium.
How long does unopened canned crab meat last on the shelf?
Unopened commercially canned crab will stay fresh for 1-4 years stored in a cool, dry pantry. Always check for dents, swelling or leaking before opening older cans.
Can you store opened canned crab meat in the fridge?
Yes, transfer opened canned crab meat to an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-4 days. Covering the surface with plastic wrap adds extra protection.
What are signs of spoiled canned crab meat?
Look for stickiness, sliminess, mushiness, foul odors, discoloration, mold growth or a sour smell. Discard immediately if any signs of spoilage.
How should you thaw frozen canned crab meat?
Thaw frozen crab meat overnight in the refrigerator. Microwaving or leaving at room temperature can cause moisture loss. Use thawed crab meat within 3-4 days.
Is it safe to eat canned crab meat after the expiration date?
If stored properly, commercially canned crab can be safely eaten after its “Best By” date, which refers to peak quality. Rely on your senses to check for spoilage.
Can you cook previously opened canned crab meat?
Yes, opened canned crab can be briefly cooked or heated through in recipes. Avoid prolonged cooking times which may cause the meat to become rubbery.
What are the best ways to use up canned crab meat?
Some easy ways to use up opened canned crab before it spoils are in salads, sandwiches, tacos, seafood cakes, pasta salad, casseroles or stir fries.
The Takeaway on Maximizing Canned Crab’s Opened Shelf Life
When stored properly in the fridge, opened canned crab meat will retain optimum freshness and quality for 3-4 days. Freezing extends the shelf life for about 3 months.
Follow basic food safety practices, never eating crab that smells or appears spoiled. With proper refrigerated storage and freezing, you can maximize the shelf life of canned crab once opened, enjoying its convenience, nutrition and flavor before it expires.
