Can Salmon Go Bad : What You MUST Know

Salmon is undoubtedly one of the most popular fish worldwide. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins, making it a favorite among health-conscious eaters. Whether you love it grilled, baked, or raw in sushi, salmon is a versatile, flavorful fish that can elevate any meal. But, like any perishable food, it’s essential to know how to properly store it to keep it fresh for as long as possible and avoid foodborne illnesses. In this guide, we’ll explore how to tell if your salmon has gone bad, how to store it properly, and some expert tips on maximizing its shelf life. Let’s dive into the details!

Can Salmon Go Bad?

Yes, salmon can definitely go bad. As with any type of fish, fresh salmon has a limited shelf life and can spoil quickly if not stored correctly. Salmon is a highly perishable food due to its high moisture content and delicate structure, which makes it prone to bacterial growth. When left at room temperature or improperly stored, bacteria can multiply, leading to unpleasant odors, slimy textures, and even food poisoning.

But here’s the good news: if you know how to store it properly, you can keep your salmon fresh for a reasonable amount of time. The key is proper handling, temperature control, and recognizing the signs of spoilage.

Shelf Life For Salmon

Understanding the shelf life of salmon is crucial, whether you’re buying it fresh, frozen, or pre-packaged. Let’s break it down into different scenarios:

Fresh Salmon

• Refrigerated (raw): Fresh salmon will typically last 1 to 2 days in the fridge when properly stored. The key here is to ensure it’s kept in a cool environment (below 40°F or 4°C).
• Frozen (raw): If you’ve bought fresh salmon and you don’t plan to eat it within a couple of days, freezing is a good option. Frozen raw salmon can last up to 6 months in the freezer without a significant loss of quality.

Cooked Salmon

• Refrigerated: If you’ve cooked the salmon, it’s best to eat it within 3 to 4 days. Once cooked, bacteria can still grow, so keep it well-covered and stored in an airtight container.
• Frozen (cooked): Cooked salmon can be frozen for about 2 to 3 months. Just make sure it’s wrapped tightly to avoid freezer burn.

Canned Or Smoked Salmon

• Unopened cans: Canned salmon has an extended shelf life and can last anywhere from 1 to 5 years if stored in a cool, dry place.
• Opened cans: Once opened, the salmon should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated. It will last 3 to 4 days.

Common Signs Of Spoilage

Knowing when salmon has gone bad is crucial in preventing foodborne illnesses. Here are the most common signs that your salmon has spoiled:

Smell

• Fresh salmon should have a clean, ocean-like smell, not fishy. A pungent, sour, or ammonia-like odor is a major red flag that the fish is no longer safe to eat.

Color

• Fresh salmon typically has a bright, vibrant color, ranging from pink to deep red, depending on the type. If the flesh starts turning dull, gray, or brown, it’s a sign that it’s past its prime.
• For cooked salmon, look for any signs of discoloration-greenish or yellowish hues are not typical and indicate spoilage.

Texture

• When you press fresh salmon, it should feel firm to the touch and should spring back. If it feels mushy, slimy, or sticky, it’s a sign the fish is no longer safe to eat.
• For cooked salmon, if it becomes excessively dry, mushy, or hard, it’s likely gone bad.

Excessive Liquid

• Fresh salmon tends to release some moisture, but a significant amount of liquid pooling around the fish can indicate spoilage. The texture should remain moist but not soggy or watery.

Appearance Of Mold Or Growth

• Any visible mold or unusual growth on salmon means it’s unsafe to consume, and you should discard it immediately.

How To Store Salmon?

Proper storage is the key to prolonging the freshness of your salmon. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to store both raw and cooked salmon for the best shelf life:

Refrigeration

• For raw salmon: Keep it in the coldest part of your fridge (usually near the back). Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or wax paper. You can also store it in an airtight container or resealable bag to minimize exposure to air.
• For cooked salmon: After cooking, allow it to cool to room temperature, but don’t leave it out for more than 2 hours. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• For leftovers: If you’ve cooked salmon and know you won’t eat it in the next few days, freeze it immediately to maintain its texture and flavor.

Freezing

• For raw salmon: To freeze, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. Use a vacuum sealer for the best results. Raw salmon can last up to 6 months in the freezer without compromising quality.
• For cooked salmon: Once cooked, let it cool down completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then store it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Cooked salmon can be frozen for 2 to 3 months.

Thawing

• When ready to use frozen salmon, thaw it in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours. You can also thaw it under cold running water for faster results, but never thaw it at room temperature to avoid bacterial growth.

For Canned Or Smoked Salmon

• Store unopened canned or smoked salmon in a cool, dry place. Once opened, refrigerate it in an airtight container, and consume within 3 to 4 days.

Expert Tips

To get the most out of your salmon, consider these expert storage and handling tips:

• Freshness is key: Always buy the freshest salmon you can find, and try to consume it within 1-2 days of purchase.
• Avoid freezing if it’s already been frozen: If you buy frozen salmon, try not to refreeze it once it’s thawed. This can cause a significant drop in quality.
• Use your senses: Your nose, eyes, and fingers are your best tools. Always check for any signs of spoilage before cooking or consuming your salmon.
• Vacuum sealing: If you’re looking to store salmon long-term in the freezer, consider investing in a vacuum sealer. This removes excess air and prevents freezer burn.
• Don’t let it sit out: Never leave salmon (or any fish) out at room temperature for extended periods. Bacteria thrive at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F, which is the danger zone.

FAQs

Can Salmon Go Bad If Left Out At Room Temperature?

Yes, salmon can go bad if left out at room temperature for too long. Bacteria can grow rapidly at temperatures above 40°F (4°C), so it should not be left out for more than two hours.

How Long Can Fresh Salmon Stay In The Fridge?

Fresh salmon can typically stay in the fridge for 1-2 days. It’s best to consume it as soon as possible for optimal freshness.

How Can You Tell If Salmon Has Gone Bad?

Signs that salmon has gone bad include an off or sour smell, a slimy texture, and discoloration. Fresh salmon should have a mild ocean-like smell and firm, moist flesh.

Can Frozen Salmon Go Bad?

Frozen salmon can go bad, but it can last up to 6 months in the freezer if stored properly. After that, the quality may decline due to freezer burn, though it is still safe to eat.

How Can I Store Salmon To Prevent It From Going Bad?

To prevent salmon from going bad, store it in the coldest part of the fridge, ideally on a plate covered with plastic wrap or foil. For longer storage, freeze it immediately.

Can Canned Salmon Go Bad?

Canned salmon has a long shelf life, often 2-5 years, if stored in a cool, dry place. However, once opened, it should be consumed within 3-4 days and stored in the refrigerator.

What Happens If You Eat Bad Salmon?

Eating bad salmon can lead to foodborne illnesses, including symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps, due to bacterial contamination or spoilage.

Can Cooked Salmon Go Bad?

Yes, cooked salmon can go bad. If stored properly in the fridge, it should be eaten within 3-4 days. After that, the quality declines, and there’s an increased risk of foodborne illness.

Can I Eat Salmon Past Its Sell-by Date?

Salmon can still be safe to eat shortly after the sell-by date if it has been stored properly, but it’s important to check for signs of spoilage, such as an unpleasant smell or slimy texture.

Can I Smell Salmon To Know If It Has Gone Bad?

Yes, the smell is a good indicator. Fresh salmon should have a clean, ocean-like smell, while spoiled salmon may have a sour, pungent odor, signaling that it has gone bad.