Salmon is one of the healthiest and tastiest fish you can eat. It’s full of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, salmon is also extremely perishable and prone to spoilage, even when kept refrigerated. So how long can you really store leftover cooked salmon in the fridge before it goes bad? I decided to investigate what Reddit users say about the fridge life of cooked salmon.
The Consensus: 3-4 Days Max For Leftover Salmon
After looking through many Reddit threads on the cooked salmon fridge life question, the consensus seems to be that it will last safely for 3-4 days max. Here are some direct quotes from Reddit posts on the common fridge life:
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“Cooked salmon keeps for 3-4 days max in my experience,”
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“I regularly eat salmon that I cooked 3 days ago 4 days is the absolute max I would go”
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“Leftover salmon lasts okay for 3 days, on day 4 it’s risking it.”
So according to most Reddit users cooked salmon will maintain best quality and safety for consumption when stored in the fridge and eaten within 3-4 days.
Why Does Cooked Salmon Have Such a Short Fridge Life?
Salmon seems to have a significantly shorter fridge shelf life compared to most other types of meat. The reasons salmon goes bad quicker appear to be:
1. High Fat Content
Salmon is a naturally oily, fatty fish. The delicate omega-3 fats can oxidize and go rancid when exposed to air in the refrigerator. Rancid fats lead to strong “fishy” odors and unpleasant flavors.
2. Bacteria Growth
Cooked fish is highly prone to fast bacteria growth. Salmon contains lots of moisture and proteins even after cooking – perfect conditions for bacteria to multiply quickly.
While it may be “safe” for a day or two longer, the taste and texture of salmon rapidly deteriorates past the recommended 3-4 day period. Most Reddit users stick to eating it within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Proper Storage Tips For Maximizing Fridge Life
Storing cooked salmon correctly helps preserve quality and minimize chances of spoilage. Here are some storage tips recommended on Reddit:
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“I store it in a shallow container covered with plastic wrap so it cools down fast.”
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“Tightly wrapping in foil prevents air exposure and freezer burn.”
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“Put cooked salmon on a bottom fridge shelf at 40°F or below.”
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“Eat within 3-4 days and before any color or smell changes happen.”
Following proper cooling, air exposure prevention, temperature control, and use-by date guidelines allows the salmon to safely last for its maximum fridge life.
Freezing For Long Term Storage
What if you want to meal prep salmon for the week or have leftovers beyond 3-4 days? The solution suggested on Reddit is freezing:
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“I always freeze extra salmon portions for later. Thaw as needed.”
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“Cook extra salmon and freeze it in daily servings. Keeps 2 months frozen.”
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“If I won’t eat it within 3-4 days, I freeze it right away.”
Properly frozen cooked salmon kept constant at 0°F can safely last for 2-3 months in the freezer according to USDA guidelines. Make sure to use air-tight freezer bags or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Signs Your Salmon Has Spoiled
Reddit users point out these visible and aromatic clues indicating your cooked salmon has gone bad and should be discarded:
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“Slimy texture and really fishy sour smell”
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“Weird grayish or white film on the flesh”
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“Dry, sticky texture”
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“Dull, fading orange/pink color”
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“Lots of dried out flaky sections”
When in doubt, remember the saying “When fish smells fishy, it’s gone dish-y.” Toss out any leftover salmon with an unpleasant or “off” odor just to be safe.
The Verdict on Cooked Salmon Fridge Life
The general consensus opinion on Reddit is that cooked salmon will last 3-4 days maximum when properly stored in the fridge. Freezing is best for longer storage. Follow proper cooling, wrapping, temperature control, and storage guidelines to maintain quality and freshness for the 3-4 day timeframe. Discard any salmon that smells, looks, or feels off. When handled correctly, cooked salmon can still taste delicious even on day 4!
Overview of How Long Cooked Salmon Lasts Refrigerated
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General consensus: 3-4 days max
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Reasons for short shelf life: high fats and bacteria growth
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Freeze extras for longer storage
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Signs it’s spoiled: smell, color, texture, slime
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If in doubt, throw it out!
So go enjoy tasty salmon dishes for 3-4 days when you store and handle it properly. Just be sure to freeze any extras you won’t eat within that timeframe. Follow the recommendations from experienced Reddit users for keeping cooked salmon fresher longer!
How Do You Know if Cooked Salmon Has Gone Bad?
Salmon that is fresh looks clean, smells mild, and has firm flesh. Salmon that has been spoilt smells, feels, and looks different. By recognising these signs, you can stop the growth of bacteria and avoid getting sick from food.
Key Factors That Affect Salmon’s Shelf Life
Salmon that is fresh, raw, or cooked needs extra care to keep it from going bad and to extend its shelf life.
- Good Handling: Handling raw salmon carefully prevents cross contamination.
- Airtight Storage: Cover salmon tightly to block air and keep it moist.
- Away from Other Foods: Keep salmon away from strong-smelling foods to maintain a mild scent.
- Prevent Freezer Burn: If freezing, wrap salmon well to avoid freezer burn and preserve quality.
How Long Does Salmon Last in The Fridge? Freshness Tips & Storage Guide | 2023 youtube video
FAQ
Can I eat cooked salmon after 5 days?
Can I eat 4 day old cooked salmon on Reddit?
Cooked salmon is safe up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Trust your nose. If in doubt, throw it out.
Is salmon good after 7 days in the fridge?
How Long Does Salmon Last In The Fridge? According to the USDA guidelines, raw salmon should only be kept in the fridge for 1-2 days from the date you purchased it. If you’re not going to eat it within 2 days, move it to the freezer, where it can be stored for months.
How do you know if cooked salmon has gone bad?