Listen up seafood lovers! We’ve all been there – buying fresh shrimp for that perfect dinner recipe, only to wonder if they’re still good to eat a couple days later. I’m gonna break down everything you need to know about storing raw shrimp properly and keeping them fresh in your fridge
Quick Answer: Raw Shrimp Storage Time
Raw shrimp only last 1-2 days in the refrigerator when stored properly. After that, you’re playing with fire (and potentially food poisoning!).
How to Tell if Raw Shrimp Has Gone Bad
Nobody wants to get sick from bad seafood! Here’s how to check if your raw shrimp needs to go in the trash
- The Smell Test: Fresh shrimp should have a mild, slightly salty smell. If you get a strong fishy odor or ammonia-like smell – toss ’em!
- Visual Check: Look for:
- Slimy or sticky texture
- Dull, grayish color instead of translucent pinkish-gray
- Any discoloration, especially around edges
- Texture Test: They should be firm, not soft or mushy
Proper Storage Tips to Keep Raw Shrimp Fresh
1. Temperature is Key
- Keep your fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below
- Store shrimp in the coldest part (usually bottom shelf)
- Use a thermometer to monitor temp
2. Container & Packaging Matters
- Use leak-proof containers to prevent cross-contamination
- If shrimp came in plastic bag:
- Keep bag open
- Place over bowl of ice
- Cover with damp paper towel
3. The Ice Method
We love this pro tip for extending freshness:
- Place shrimp in container
- Cover with fresh ice
- Change ice as it melts
- Keep container covered
What About Freezing Raw Shrimp?
Can’t cook your shrimp within 2 days? No worries! Here’s how to freeze ’em
- Lay shrimp in single layer on baking sheet
- Freeze until solid (prevents clumping)
- Transfer to freezer bag or container
- Label with date
- Use within 3 months for best quality
Thawing Frozen Shrimp Safely
Two safe methods to thaw your frozen shrimp:
Overnight Method (Best Choice)
- Place in colander over bowl
- Cover with damp towel
- Leave in fridge overnight
Quick Thaw Method
- Put in sealed plastic bag
- Submerge in cold water
- Takes about 15-20 minutes
- Use immediately after thawing
Common Questions We Get
Q: Can I refreeze thawed raw shrimp?
A: Nope! Once thawed, either cook it or say goodbye.
Q: What if my shrimp is past the “best by” date?
A: Trust your senses over the date. If it looks and smells good, you’re probably okay within 2 days of purchase.
Q: Help! I left my shrimp out for 2 hours – can I still eat it?
A: Sorry friend, better safe than sorry. Toss any raw shrimp left at room temp over 2 hours.
Food Safety Warning
Y’all, food poisoning from bad shrimp ain’t fun! Watch for these symptoms:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Fever
If you experience severe symptoms, get medical help ASAP!
The Bottom Line
Raw shrimp = 1-2 days in fridge max. When in doubt, throw it out! Better to waste a few bucks than spend the night hugging your toilet. Store it right, eat it quick, and enjoy your seafood safely!
Remember to always handle raw shrimp with clean hands and keep your cooking area sanitized. Now go make that awesome shrimp recipe you’ve been dreaming about!
Have any other shrimp storage questions? Drop ’em in the comments below! We’d love to help keep your seafood safe and tasty.
How to Thaw Frozen Raw Shrimp
There are two suggested methods for thawing frozen raw shrimp:
Twenty-four hours before cooking, put the shrimp in a clean container and loosely cover them with plastic wrap. Place the shrimp on a lower shelf of the refrigerator to let them slowly defrost. Once thawed, the shrimp should be used within a day. Remove any liquid at the bottom of the container before cooking.
If you need the shrimp thawed in a hurry, place them in a leak-proof plastic bag and submerge them in a cold bowl of water. Change the water every 30 minutes until the shrimp are defrosted. If you use warm water, the shrimp will begin to cook. Once thawed, the shrimp should be cooked immediately.
How Should Shrimp Be Stored?
Raw shrimp bought fresh should also be consumed within a day or two or put in the freezer. First, rinse the shrimp under cold, running water, then pat dry with paper towels. Cover the shrimp loosely with waxed paper to let air circulate around them, then store the shrimp in the coldest part of the refrigerator. It is also recommended to put them on a bed of ice. If preparing to freeze the shrimp, wrap them tightly in plastic, foil, or moisture-proof paper to preserve the flavor. Cooked shrimp can be stored in a sealed container for three to four days, but no more.