How Long Does Cooked Salmon Last in the Fridge? A Complete Guide

Salmon is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious protein that graces the tables of many households across the world. But whether you’re meal prepping for the week or dealing with leftovers from last night’s dinner, you’re probably wondering, how long does cooked salmon last in the fridge? Proper storage of salmon is essential to maintaining its flavor, texture, and, most importantly, ensuring that it’s safe to eat.

In this guide, we’ll look at how long you can keep cooked salmon in the refrigerator, tips for proper storage, how to tell if it’s gone bad, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about salmon.

How Long Does Cooked Salmon Last in the Fridge?

Cooked salmon typically lasts 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored correctly. To preserve its quality and ensure it’s safe to eat, cooked salmon should be cooled to room temperature, placed in an airtight container, and stored in the coldest part of your fridge (usually the back).

While 3 to 4 days is the standard recommendation for leftover salmon, factors such as temperature fluctuations or improper storage can reduce its shelf life. If in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and toss it out.

Why Is Proper Salmon Storage Important?

Proper storage methods not only keep your salmon tasting fresh but also prevent the growth of harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses. Perishable foods like salmon need to be stored at 40°F (4°C) or below to remain safe.

Failing to store salmon appropriately can lead to spoilage, which impacts the taste, texture, and safety of the fish. Spoiled salmon can pose health risks, including stomach pain, food poisoning, or worse.

How to Store Cooked Salmon the Right Way

Storing cooked salmon properly in the fridge will maximize its shelf life and maintain its flavor. Here’s what you should do:

1. Cool It Quickly

Allow the salmon to cool at room temperature for no longer than 2 hours. Leaving food out longer can encourage bacterial growth.

2. Use Airtight Containers

Transfer the cooked salmon to an airtight container or tightly wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This prevents it from drying out or picking up unwanted odors from other food in your fridge.

3. Choose the Coldest Spot in the Fridge

Store the salmon in the back of the refrigerator, where temperatures are most consistent. Avoid keeping it near the door, where it may face frequent temperature changes.

How Do You Know If Cooked Salmon Has Gone Bad?

Even if cooked salmon is stored properly, it doesn’t last forever. Here are the key signs your salmon has spoiled:

1. Odd Smell

Freshly cooked salmon has a mild aroma, but spoiled salmon emits a strong fishy, sour, or ammonia-like smell.

2. Color Changes

Spoiled salmon may turn from its characteristic pink or orange hue to a dull gray, brown, or even greenish color.

3. Slimy Texture

If the salmon feels slimy, sticky, or mushy to the touch, it’s likely gone bad and should be thrown out.

4. Off Taste

When in doubt, taste a small piece of the salmon. If it tastes overly sour or strange, don’t eat it.

Pro Tip: When in doubt, throw it out. Eating spoiled salmon isn’t worth the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Can Salmon Be Stored for Longer in the Freezer?

Freezing is your best option if you want to extend the life of cooked salmon beyond a few days. Properly frozen salmon can last up to 2 to 3 months without significant loss of flavor or texture.

Here’s how to freeze cooked salmon correctly:

• Allow it to cool completely.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe, airtight container.
• Label the container with the date for easy reference.

When ready to eat, thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight and consume within 2 to 3 days.

Can You Eat Salmon 5 Days After It’s Cooked?

While it may still look and smell fine, eating salmon 5 days after it’s been cooked isn’t recommended. Most food safety guidelines recommend consuming cooked salmon within 3 to 4 days.

If it’s been stored properly and shows no signs of spoilage, you may be able to eat it on the 5th day, but there’s an increased risk for bacteria growth. For optimum safety and taste, it’s best to stick to the 3 to 4-day rule.

Quick Tips for Storing Salmon Safely

• Refrigerator Temperature: Ensure your fridge is set to at least 40°F (4°C) or below.
• Label Leftovers: Mark your containers with the date to keep track of how long the salmon has been stored.
• Freeze When Unsure: If you’re not going to eat the leftovers within 4 days, freeze them immediately for longer storage.
• Don’t Leave Out Too Long: Never leave cooked salmon out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I eat salmon 5 days after cooking?

It’s best to consume salmon within 3 to 4 days of cooking. If it’s been properly stored, eating it on the 5th day may be fine, but there’s a greater risk of foodborne illness.

2. How do you know if cooked salmon has gone bad?

Signs of spoiled salmon include a strong, sour smell, color changes to gray or green, slimy texture, and an off taste.

3. Can salmon last 7 days in the fridge?

No, salmon shouldn’t be stored in the fridge for longer than 3 to 4 days. Freezing it can extend its shelf life.

4. How long is leftover salmon good?

Leftover salmon is safe to eat for 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Keep Your Salmon Fresh and Safe

Knowing how long cooked salmon lasts in the fridge—and how to store it properly—can save you time, money, and even a trip to the doctor. By following these simple guidelines, you’ll enjoy every last bite of this delicious fish while keeping your household safe from foodborne illnesses.

If you’re meal prepping or concerned about keeping leftovers fresh, freezing is your best friend. When in doubt, always go with the motto, “If it looks, smells, or feels off, don’t eat it.”

Now that you’re equipped with everything you need to know about storing salmon safely, enjoy your perfectly cooked meals without a worry!