How Long Does Shelf-Stable Canned Crab Meat Last Once Opened?

Canned crab meat is a convenient way to quickly enjoy the delicious taste of crab without the hassle of purchasing, cleaning and cooking fresh crab Its shelf-stable nature makes it easy to keep on hand for whenever that crab craving hits However, once you open a can of crab meat, its shelf life decreases rapidly. So how long does shelf-stable canned crab meat actually last after opening?

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to maximize the shelf life and safety of your canned crab meat after opening

Overview of Canned Crab Meat

Commercially canned crab meat refers to pasteurized crab meat that has been pre-cooked and packaged in airtight cans or pouches, The canning process involves cooking the crab meat to a high enough temperature to kill any potential pathogens The cooked meat is then sealed in cans that have been sterilized by heat

This stabilization process gives canned crab meat an unopened shelf life of 2-5 years when properly stored in a cool, dry pantry. It allows you to keep canned crab on hand for convenient use in recipes like crab cakes, crab salad, seafood pasta, etc.

Canned crab comes in several forms:

• White crab meat: Delicate body meat from the crab body and claws.
• Lump crab meat: Premium chunks of body meat.
• Claw crab meat: Meat from crab claws and legs.
• Backfin crab meat: Flaky body meat from around the crab’s organs.

No matter the type, properly processed canned crab is fully cooked and safe to eat straight from the can. Its mild, sweet flavor and shredded texture makes it versatile for both hot and cold preparations.

Why the Shelf Life Shortens After Opening

While commercially canned crab meat is shelf-stable when unopened, its shelf life decreases rapidly once exposed to air.

Opening the can breaks the airtight seal, allowing oxygen and bacteria to enter. Oxygen causes oxidation which degrades quality over time. Bacteria multiply quickly if not refrigerated, potentially causing spoilage or foodborne illness.

For optimal safety and quality, opened canned crab meat must be handled and stored differently than when unopened.

Refrigerator Storage Time for Opened Canned Crab

Once opened, canned crab meat must be promptly refrigerated. Stored continuously at 40°F (4°C) or below, opened pasteurized crab meat will maintain best quality for 3-5 days.

To help slow spoilage:

• Transfer opened crab meat to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Glass and plastic containers work best.

• Cover the surface with plastic wrap before sealing the lid to protect from oxygen exposure.

• Store opened crab in the coldest part of the refrigerator, ideally the back of the bottom shelf.

• Check for any signs of spoilage before use like off-odors, stickiness, or discoloration. Discard if any mold develops.

Following proper cold storage guidelines optimizes both the safety and quality of opened canned crab meat.

Can You Freeze Opened Canned Crab Meat?

For maximum shelf life, you can freeze opened canned crab meat in airtight containers or freezer bags. Continuously frozen at 0°F (-18°C), the crab meat will maintain optimal quality for about 3 months.

However, freezing may cause some texture changes. Thawed crab meat often becomes mushy and dry compared to fresh. For best results, freeze smaller portions that can be used up quickly after thawing.

Thaw frozen crab meat overnight in the fridge. Never leave it out at room temperature to thaw, as bacteria can multiply rapidly above 40°F (4°C).

Tips for Safely Enjoying Canned Crab After Its “Best By” Date

The “Best By” date on canned crab is not an expiration date. Rather, it indicates the period of peak quality when still unopened.

As long as the can is not damaged, commercially canned crab remains safe to eat for 2-5 years when stored in a cool, dry pantry. But its texture and flavor will slowly degrade over time.

Once opened, rely on your senses. If refrigerated canned crab smells and appears normal with no sliminess, it should be safe to enjoy for 3-5 days past its suggested “Best By” date.

However, always discard any bulging, leaking or heavily dented cans. Botulism spores could be present. Also, never consume crab meat that smells unpleasant or looks slimy/discolored.

How to Tell If Opened Canned Crab Is Spoiled

Check opened crab meat for the following signs of spoilage before eating:

• Smell: Fishy, ammonia-like, sour or “off” odors
• Appearance: Slimy texture, sticky residue, unnatural discoloration
• Mold: Presence of fuzzy mold anywhere
• Taste: Significantly unpleasant or sour taste

If old canned crab exhibits any of these warning signs, throw it out. Consuming spoiled crab can cause foodborne illness.

Trust your senses. When in doubt, don’t risk it – properly discard it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can I store open canned crab in the fridge?

Refrigerate opened canned crab meat for no more than 3-5 days for best quality and food safety.

Can I freeze previously opened canned crab meat?

You can freeze opened canned crab for up to 3 months. This maintains safety but may slightly alter the texture.

Does the type of crab meat affect refrigerated shelf life?

No, the type of crab meat (lump, white, etc.) does not significantly impact refrigerated shelf life after opening. Proper storage conditions are most critical.

How long does unopened canned crab meat last on the shelf?

Unopened, commercially canned crab meat lasts 2-5 years stored in a cool, dry pantry. Check the “Best By” date on the can.

Is it safe to eat canned crab after the “Best By” date?

An unopened can past its “Best By” date can be safely eaten as long as the can is not damaged. But quality declines over time.

What if my can of crab meat is bulging or leaking?

Discard bulging, leaking, or heavily dented cans. They may contain botulism toxin which can be fatal. Do not open or eat these cans.

How do I thaw frozen crab meat properly?

Thaw frozen crab overnight in the refrigerator. Do not leave at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.

Can I get sick from eating spoiled canned crab?

Yes, consuming spoiled crab can result in foodborne illness. Look for warning signs like off-smells, stickiness, sliminess, or mold.

The Bottom Line

With proper refrigerated storage, opened canned crab meat lasts 3-5 days at optimum quality and safety. Freezing extends the shelf life for about 3 months.

Follow the storage, handling and sensory guidelines provided to maximize the shelf life of your canned crab after opening. This ensures you can safely enjoy its convenience, nutrition and signature sweet flavor before it expires.