How Long Does Canned Crab Last? Your Questions Answered

Canned crab can make for an easy and delicious meal or snack. But how long does it actually last once opened or unopened? Here’s a deep dive into everything you need to know about canned crab shelf life.

Overview

Canned crab is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes like crab cakes crab rangoon and seafood salads. It’s affordable, readily available, and has a relatively long shelf life compared to fresh crab. However, as with any canned product, canned crab does eventually expire.

There are a few key factors that determine how long canned crab lasts

• Unopened vs opened: Unopened cans last significantly longer than opened ones. An unopened can will generally stay good for 3-5 years in the pantry. Once opened, canned crab lasts 3-4 days in the fridge.

• Ingredients: Canned crab is preserved via canning and pasteurization. The cans contain crab meat and broth, which help preserve the meat. Some versions have added preservatives.

• Storage method: Proper storage is essential for maximizing shelf life. Unopened cans should be stored in a cool, dry pantry away from direct sunlight. Opened crab should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated.

• Can or package condition: Dents, rust, and bulges can all impact shelf life. Damaged cans should not be consumed.

Shelf Life of Unopened Canned Crab

When stored properly in a pantry, unopened canned crab that was sold unrefrigerated generally stays good for 3 to 5 years past the printed “best by” date on the packaging.

However, canned crab will usually remain safe to eat for some time beyond that best by date, provided the can itself is in good condition and has been stored in a cool, dry pantry.

Over time, the quality and texture of the crab meat will slowly deteriorate. But an unopened can that is a few years past its date can still be enjoyed in crab cakes, dips, and other recipes that call for canned crab.

Some signs that canned crab has spoiled and should be discarded:

• Bulging or leaking can
• Severe dents, rust, or damage
• Off odors, colors, textures
• Mold presence

When stored properly, canned crab can remain shelf-stable and safe to eat for years beyond the printed date. Use your best judgment when evaluating older cans.

Shelf Life of Opened Canned Crab

Once opened, canned crab will only last 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. The countdown starts as soon as you open the can.

To maximize the leftover shelf life:

• Transfer crab meat to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
• Refrigerate promptly after opening.
• Use within 3-4 days for peak quality.

Properly stored, opened canned crab can last up to 7 days past its printed “use by” date. But it’s best to discard any leftovers that are older than 5-6 days.

Again, look for any signs of spoilage like off smells, texture changes, or slime development. The crab meat may take on a slightly duller appearance but should still be safe to eat within a week if refrigerated.

Storing Canned Crab Properly

Here are some tips for safe canned crab storage:

• Unopened: Store cans in a cool, dry place like a pantry or cupboard. Avoid direct sunlight and high temperatures.

• Opened: Transfer leftover crab to an airtight container and refrigerate. Glass containers work best.

• Use older cans first. Follow the FIFO (first in, first out) principle and use up older cans before newer ones.

• Don’t freeze unopened cans as this can damage the can lining. Refrigerating is also unnecessary.

• Look for damage before opening cans. Bulges, deep dents, and rust are red flags.

With proper storage and handling, canned crab can be enjoyed safely for several years. Following basic food safety practices will help maximize the shelf life.

How To Tell If Canned Crab Has Gone Bad

As canned crab ages, the most obvious signs of spoilage are:

• Off odors – Canned crab will develop a sour, unpleasant smell.

• Soft texture – The crab meat becomes overly soft or mushy.

• Sliminess – Slime development on the meat surface.

• Mold – Fuzzy mold growing in the can or container.

• Discoloration – Gradual dulling of the white crab meat color.

• Bubbles – Bubbles in the can liquid may be a sign of fermentation.

Always inspect cans before opening. Throw away severely dented, rusted, or bulging cans.

Trust your senses. If leftovers smell, look, or feel off, they should be discarded.

When in doubt, throw it out. Canned seafood poisoning is uncommon but possible if severely spoiled crab is eaten.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does unopened canned crab last at room temperature?

Properly stored in a pantry, unopened canned crab will stay good for 3 to 5 years past its printed date. Pantry temperatures should stay below 70°F for longest shelf life.

Does canned crab go bad?

Yes, canned crab can go bad over time, especially if improperly stored. Signs of spoiled canned crab include off odors, soft texture, sliminess, mold, and discoloration. Bulging cans should also be discarded.

Can you eat canned crab that is expired?

Canned crab can often be safely eaten past its printed expiration or “best by” date, provided the can is not damaged. However, quality declines over time. Unopened, expired cans that have been continuously refrigerated may last up to 5 more years.

Can canned crab make you sick?

Rarely, if canned crab is severely spoiled, it can cause foodborne illness. Signs include digestive upset, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. In healthy adults, sickness is usually mild. But infants, elderly, and those with weak immune systems are more at risk from contaminated seafood.

How do you store opened canned crab?

Once opened, canned crab should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated. Consume leftovers within 3-4 days for best quality and safety. Discard any opened canned crab that is more than 7 days old.

The Bottom Line

With proper storage and handling, canned crab can stay fresh and safe to eat for 3-5 years when unopened, and 3-4 days when opened. Keep cans in a cool, dry place and refrigerate leftovers promptly in a sealed container. Look for signs of spoilage before consuming. Follow basic food safety practices and enjoy canned crab even past its printed date.