All About Large shrimp
Your complete guide to large shrimp - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Large shrimp Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for large shrimp in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
cooked in freezer2-3 months
Signs of Spoilage
Freezer burn, significant changes in texture (mushy or rubbery) after thawing, development of off-flavors.
How to Check
Look: Check for freezer burn before thawing. After thawing, assess the appearance and texture. Smell: After thawing, it should still have a normal, mild smell.
Storage Tips
Allow cooked shrimp to cool completely before freezing. Store in airtight freezer-safe containers or bags to minimize air exposure and maintain quality.
raw in freezer6-12 months (for best quality, up to 6 months)
Signs of Spoilage
Excessive freezer burn (dry, discolored patches), dull color after thawing, strong 'fishy' smell after thawing (indicates it wasn't fresh before freezing or was improperly stored).
How to Check
Look: Before thawing, check for large ice crystals or widespread freezer burn. After thawing, refer to the 'raw in fridge' detection tips. Smell: After thawing, it should still have a fresh, mild scent. Any strong off-odor is a sign of spoilage.
Storage Tips
Freeze shrimp as soon as possible after purchase. For best results, remove from store packaging and place in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Glazing shrimp with a thin layer of water before freezing can also help protect it.
raw in fridge (fresh, unfrozen)1-2 days
Signs of Spoilage
Strong 'fishy' or ammonia smell, slimy or sticky texture, dull or discolored appearance (yellow, green, gray spots), black spots on the shell/flesh (melanosis can indicate age, though not always spoilage itself).
How to Check
Smell: Fresh shrimp should smell clean, like the ocean, or slightly briny, not strongly fishy, sour, or like ammonia. Look: Raw shrimp are typically translucent gray-blue or pinkish-gray. They should appear shiny and firm. Avoid any dull, discolored, or spotty shrimp. Touch: Fresh shrimp should be firm and slightly springy to the touch. Sliminess is a clear indicator of spoilage.
Storage Tips
Store on the lowest shelf of the refrigerator to prevent any drips from contaminating other foods. Keep in original packaging if well-sealed, or transfer to a colander set over a bowl, covered with plastic wrap, to allow for drainage. Best used the day of purchase.
cooked in fridge3-4 days
Signs of Spoilage
Sour or ammonia-like smell, slimy texture, visible mold growth, dull or shriveled appearance.
How to Check
Smell: Cooked shrimp should smell mildly sweet or like the seasonings it was prepared with. Any sour, off-putting, or strong 'fishy' smell indicates spoilage. Look: Check for any mold, significant discoloration, or a dry, shriveled look. Touch: Sliminess is a definitive sign of spoilage.
Storage Tips
Allow cooked shrimp to cool completely before refrigerating. Store in an airtight container to prevent odor absorption and maintain moisture. Do not leave cooked shrimp at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
thawed raw in fridge1-2 days
Signs of Spoilage
Strong 'fishy' or ammonia smell, slimy or sticky texture, dull or discolored appearance (yellow, green, gray spots).
How to Check
Smell: Thawed shrimp should smell clean and fresh. A strong 'fishy' or ammonia smell indicates spoilage. Look: The shrimp should appear translucent and firm. Discoloration or dullness is a bad sign. Touch: It should be firm and not slimy.
Storage Tips
Thaw frozen shrimp slowly in the refrigerator overnight. Never thaw at room temperature. Once thawed, treat it like fresh raw shrimp and cook promptly. Do not refreeze raw shrimp after it has been thawed.