How Long Does Imitation Crab Meat Last in the Fridge?

Imitation crab meat, often labeled as krab crab stick, or surimi has become a popular ingredient in seafood dishes and sushi rolls. With its sweet flavor and shredded texture similar to real crab, this seafood product made from fish provides an affordable and accessible alternative. But with its processed nature, many home cooks wonder just how long imitation crab meat lasts after opening.

Here’s a complete guide to maximizing the shelf life and determining spoilage of imitation crab meat stored in the refrigerator or freezer.

An Overview on Imitation Crab Meat

Before jumping into proper storage, it helps to understand exactly what imitation crab meat is made of.

Imitation crab or surimi starts with minced white fish such as Alaskan pollock or hake. The fish is cooked and pulverized into a dough-like paste, then mixed with fillers like wheat starch, egg whites, and crab flavoring. Coloring agents like carotenoids give it that recognizable reddish-orange hue.

The resulting paste can be shaped, cut, and rolled into various forms from chunks to shredded strands. When packaged and chilled, the texture closely mimics the flakiness of real crab.

Imitation crab is precooked when processed, so it just needs to be heated or chilled before serving. This makes it a versatile, convenient seafood option for sushi, salads, dips, sandwiches, and more.

Refrigerator Shelf Life of Imitation Crab

Proper refrigeration is key to maintaining freshness and extending the shelf life. Here are some fridge storage guidelines:

• Unopened – Store unopened packages of imitation crab meat in the refrigerator. It will maintain quality up to 2 weeks past any “sell-by” or “best by” dates on the packaging when kept at a temperature of 40°F or below.

• Opened – Once opened, reseal or transfer imitation crab meat to an airtight container. Use opened imitation crab within 3 to 4 days. Discard any leftovers that are older than 4 days.

• Cook or freeze – For maximum freshness, use imitation crab meat within 1 to 2 days after opening. If you won’t use it all, freeze leftovers immediately.

Freezer Storage Timelines

While refrigeration preserves imitation crab for use within days, the freezer extends shelf life for months. Here are the freezing guidelines:

• Unopened – Unopened, commercially packaged imitation crab can be safely frozen for up to 6 months past the “sell-by” date printed on the package.

• Opened – Transfer opened imitation crab meat to an airtight freezer bag or container, removing excess air. It will maintain best quality frozen for 4 to 6 months at a temperature of 0°F or below.

• Thawing – Thaw frozen imitation crab overnight in the refrigerator. Do not thaw on the counter at room temperature.

Signs of Spoiled Imitation Crab

Imitation crab has a longer shelf life than fresh seafood, but it will eventually spoil. Signs that indicate it’s time to throw out your imitation crab include:

• Slimy texture – Fresh imitation crab should have a bouncy, firm texture. Discard any that feels slippery or mushy.

• Fishy odor – Imitation crab that has gone bad tends to have a noticeable fishy or ammonia-like smell.

• Change in color – The crab may fade to an unnatural white, brown or gray color as it spoils.

• Mold – Check for visible fuzzy mold, especially if storing past the use-by date. This indicates spoilage.

• Expiration dates – Do not consume imitation crab more than 1 week past any expiration dates printed on the packaging.

When in doubt, remember it’s better to be safe and throw away questionable imitation crab. The adverse effects of eating spoiled crab meat aren’t worth the risk.

How to Keep Imitation Crab Fresh Longer

Follow these simple tips to safely store imitation crab meat and extend its shelf life:

• Refrigerate unopened packages below 40°F and minimize temperature fluctuations. Avoid storing in the door.

• Transfer opened product to airtight containers or bags, gently pressing out excess air.

• Label storage containers with dates so you know when it was opened or frozen.

• Portion bulk packages into single servings before freezing to avoid thawing more than needed.

• If reheating, avoid overcooking. Imitation crab just needs a quick steam or gentle heat.

With proper refrigeration and freezing methods, imitation crab can stay fresh for use in your favorite seafood dishes for weeks or months past the date of purchase. But once that package is open, be sure to use it within 3 to 4 days for safety.