cooking tips

How long does refrigerated seafood last

By Kiwilimón - 2024-10-24T16:37:21Z
Read in EnglishSeafood is delicious, but it can also be dangerous if not refrigerated properly. Avoid health problems by knowing how to store seafood and how long it can last in the fridge.First of all, what should you look for when choosing seafood in good condition? If a seafood item is already spoiled, it doesn't matter if you keep it in the refrigerator or the freezer; it is simply no longer good, and you should not use it for cooking. Here are the main aspects you should check when buying seafood:The shells of seafood, such as oysters or clams, should be whole, meaning without cracks. If you find a broken shell, do not buy that seafood.To check the freshness of mussels, oysters, and clams, there is a very simple trick. Gently tap the shell. If it closes, this means the seafood is still alive; if not, it's better not to buy it.Crabs and lobsters should be bought alive, as they spoil very quickly. So when you go to buy them, make sure the legs move, the shell is firm, and the tail is curled (not extended). You can also read: The best places to eat seafood in CDMX How many days do refrigerated seafood last?It is very important to pay attention to how you store seafood. Unlike beef, which can be kept in the refrigerator without issues for several days, seafood has a much shorter shelf life. Remember that consuming spoiled or old seafood can cause infections or health problems, so it's better to avoid those inconveniences by storing seafood according to these guidelines.Shrimp, oysters, lobster, and fresh squid can only be refrigerated for two days (not more). In the freezer, they have a longer shelf life, lasting between three and six months.In the case of cooked seafood, if cooked on the same day it is consumed, it can be refrigerated for up to three days. If you did not prepare the food yourself, check with the manufacturer for consumption guidelines to know how much longer the dish can be stored in the refrigerator.See more: Where to buy fresh seafood in CDMX? In any case, it is very important that before consuming seafood (cooked or fresh) that has been refrigerated or frozen, you check its general condition. The smell should never be sour or resemble ammonia.Although they are not seafood, fish also need to be stored carefully to avoid spoilage. The recommendation is that fish (lean and fatty) can be kept in the refrigerator for a maximum of two days, and in the freezer from six to eight months.Remember to periodically check the temperature of your refrigerator, which should be at 4° C, and the freezer at -18° C.Do you love seafood? Then you can't miss the seafood recipes, shrimp, octopus, and other seafood options, as Kiwilimón has countless options for all tastes. Continue reading: How to avoid cross-contamination with seafood