Freshly Cooked Tips: How Long Can Cooked Shrimp Stay in the Fridge
Last time after a family gathering, we ended up with a lot of leftover cooked shrimp. It felt wasteful to throw it away, but I was worried about it spoiling in the fridge. The deliciousness of shrimp shouldn’t be “ruined” by the fridge! So, how long can cooked shrimp stay safely stored in the fridge? One day, or maybe longer? Let’s explore the answer together!
How Long Can Cooked Shrimp Be Stored in the Fridge?
Generally, if you store cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator (at or below 4°C / 40°F), they will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. If you want to store them for a longer period, freezing is a better option. When frozen (at or below -18°C / 0°F), cooked shrimp can last anywhere from 3 to 6 months.
However, it's important to note that whether you're refrigerating or freezing, the shrimp should be fully cooled before storage. Ensure that the storage container is clean and properly sealed to prevent bacterial growth and spoilage. And when you're ready to eat the shrimp, make sure to reheat them thoroughly to a safe temperature to ensure food safety.
Can You Eat Cooked Shrimp After 5 Days?
If cooked shrimp have been stored in the fridge for 5 days, it's generally not safe to eat them. The longer they sit, the more bacteria can proliferate, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. If the shrimp were stored in the freezer, you can thaw them out and check their appearance, texture, and smell. If they still look, feel, and smell normal after thawing, they might be safe to eat once reheated, but the texture and taste could be compromised.
My advice is to consume cooked shrimp within 2-3 days for the best freshness and flavor. Beyond that, it's safer to avoid eating them to prevent any potential health risks.
How do you know if cooked shrimp has gone bad?
Check the Appearance
Fresh shrimp should have firm, plump meat and a bright color. If the shrimp becomes loose, the color turns dull, or there’s a slimy texture, these are signs that the shrimp may have spoiled.
Smell the Shrimp
Fresh shrimp will have a mild ocean-like scent or a faint fishy smell. If you detect a strong, off-putting odor or sour smell, the shrimp is likely spoiled and should not be eaten.
Feel the Texture
Fresh shrimp should feel firm and elastic to the touch. When you press lightly on the shrimp, it should quickly bounce back to its original shape. If the shrimp feels soft, mushy, or loses its bounce, it’s probably spoiled.
Inspect the Shrimp Inside
If you’re still unsure, gently peel back the shell to examine the meat. If the shrimp is discolored or gives off a bad smell, it’s definitely gone bad and should be discarded.
Always trust your senses—sight, smell, and touch—when determining whether cooked shrimp is still safe to eat. If anything seems off, it's better to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Is It Safe to Reheat Shrimp in the Microwave?
Yes, reheating shrimp in the microwave is safe as long as you follow the proper steps. The microwave works by using microwaves to heat food through the vibration of water molecules. When reheating shrimp, it’s important to do it correctly.
Here are a few tips for safe microwave reheating:
Use Microwave-Safe Containers
Always use microwave-safe containers, such as ceramic or heat-resistant glass. Avoid regular plastic containers, as some plastics can release harmful chemicals when heated in the microwave.
Cover the Shrimp
It’s a good idea to cover the shrimp with a lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. This helps retain moisture during reheating, preventing the shrimp from drying out and becoming tough.
Watch the Heating Time
The heating time is crucial. For just a few shrimp, microwaving on high power for about 2-3 minutes is usually enough. The exact time can vary depending on your microwave’s power and the number of shrimp. Make sure the shrimp is heated all the way through before serving.
By following these simple guidelines, you can safely reheat shrimp in the microwave while keeping them tender and delicious.
Is It Safe to Eat Reheated Shrimp?
Reheating shrimp is safe as long as they were properly stored before being reheated. If the shrimp were stored in the fridge or freezer and haven't shown signs of spoilage, you can reheat them with confidence using methods like stovetop, oven, or microwave.
However, if the shrimp were stored improperly or have already started to spoil—such as having an off smell, discoloration, or a mushy texture—it's not recommended to eat them, even after reheating. Spoiled shrimp can contain harmful bacteria or toxins, and reheating won’t eliminate these dangers. Consuming spoiled shrimp can lead to foodborne illness and discomfort.
Always check your shrimp for signs of spoilage before reheating, and if in doubt, discard them to ensure your safety.
How long is raw shrimp good in the fridge?
Refrigeration: Raw shrimp can be stored in the fridge for 1-2 days at temperatures between 0-4°C. This slows bacterial growth but doesn't stop it entirely.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze raw shrimp at -18°C or lower. Frozen shrimp can last 3-6 months, preserving their quality and safety.
Sealed Storage: Always store shrimp in airtight containers or bags to prevent contamination and odor absorption. This helps maintain freshness and reduces bacteria risk.
Freshness: Only store fresh shrimp. If they show signs of spoilage (soft, discolored, or foul-smelling), discard them immediately.
Defrosting: If freezing, defrost shrimp slowly in the fridge to retain their texture and taste. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
