How Long Can Thawed Salmon Stay in the Fridge Safely

Thawed salmon can typically be stored in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days. It's crucial to keep it in an airtight container or tightly wrapped to maintain its freshness. If you don't plan to use it within that time frame, it's recommended to cook it and then refrigerate or freeze the cooked salmon for later use.

Food Service Inspector’s Perspective: A food service inspector suggests aiming for less than 24 hours, with up to 48 hours being the maximum acceptable period. This aligns with the guidelines of keeping fish at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) to prevent bacterial growth, which can lead to foodborne illness.

Ensuring Edibility: If you plan to use the salmon, it's best to prepare and eat it within the day. If it remains in the refrigerator past its optimal freshness period, it may remain edible but the smell might become unacceptable. It's worth noting that the fish may also show signs of spoilage, so it's always a good idea to use your senses of sight and smell to check the fish before consumption.

In summary, thawed salmon should be used or stored appropriately within a couple of days. Storing it in the fridge helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. If you find yourself unable to use it within this time frame, it's best to cook it immediately or freeze it until you're ready to use it.

Note that the longer the fish stays in the fridge, the higher the risk of bacterial growth. Therefore, the key is to keep the salmon refrigerated at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) and to use your senses to ensure the fish remains fresh and safe for consumption.