How long does tuna last in fridge (+3 shelf-life tips)
In this brief guide, we are going to answer the question “how long does tuna last in fridge” with an in-depth analysis of the shelf life of tuna in different conditions. Moreover, we are going to discuss the different ways to tell if your tuna has gone bad and tips to prolong the shelf life of tuna.
So without much ado, let’s dive in and figure out more about it.
How long does tuna last in the fridge?
Store prepared or homemade tuna can last for 3-5 days if it is stored at approximately 40°F or below in the fridge in an air-tight container according to the Food Safety Information Chart by the USDA. While raw tuna can be stored for as long as two days in the fridge without going bad.
The meat group itself is perishable and when it comes to fish it is one of the most highly perishable commodities. Therefore they can not be stored too long once the can gets opened.
Moreover, in the case of canned tuna, you should also keep in view the expiry date written on the label. Because after the expiry date of the canned tuna has passed, the quality, flavor, and texture of the tuna begin to deteriorate gradually.
How long does tuna last at room temperature?
If you have left tuna in open without covering it then it is recommended to use it within two hours or else there are chances of microbial growth to have started on it. You should get rid of the tuna that has been left uncovered at room temperature for more than an hour as 40°F to 140°F are the most feasible temperature conditions for the bacteria to grow and spoil your tuna.
How does tuna last in the freezer?
Cooked tuna can stay good for as long as 4 months in the freezer without getting bad. While the raw tuna can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
How should you store tuna in the fridge?
You should always store tuna in air-tight containers or bags so that it won’t pick up the odor of any other food present in the fridge. Moreover, tuna has a strong odor therefore by putting it in an air-tight container will save your fridge from smelling like fish.
Moreover, it is better to store your tuna container on one of the shelves of the fridge rather than the door as the temperature fluctuates a lot at the fridge door.
Why should you store tuna at or below 40°F?
You should always store your tuna at 40°F or below. Bacterial growth takes place at a faster pace between the temperature of 40°F and 140°F, therefore it is always advised to store your tuna at a lower temperature than this.
Being a highly perishable commodity tuna is both prone to pathogenic and spoilage bacteria. The spoilage bacteria can degrade its quality while the pathogenic bacteria can cause several diseases including food poisoning if someone consumes the tuna that has gone bad.
Other FAQs about Tuna which you may be interested in.
How long does a tuna sandwich last in the fridge?
How long does raw tuna steak last in the fridge?
How long does tuna steak last in the fridge?
How long does tuna last after being frozen and thawed?
After thawing the frozen tuna in the fridge, it can last for about 3 days without going bad but if you are thawing the frozen tuna in the microwave, we recommend you to use it immediately.
How do you know if tuna has gone bad?
You can tell whether or not tuna has gone bad by considering its appearance, taste, and smell.
Appearance
The appearance of off-colors is the indication that the tuna has gone bad and you should discard it.
Taste
If you notice some off-flavors after taking a tiny bite of the tuna then it indicates that your tuna has gone bad.
Smell
Tuna fish already has a strong odor of itself but if you smell something putrid then it is an indication that your tuna has gone bad.
Tips to prolong the shelf life of tuna
- After opening the can always put the leftover tuna in an air-tight bag or container and place it in the fridge to increase its shelf life.
- You can further enhance the shelf life of tuna by storing it in a sealed container in the freezer. Properly stored tuna can have a shelf life of as long as 3 months in the freezer.
- Do not open the can of the tuna beforehand. Open it when you need to cook it so that no microbes will find their way to the open can of the tuna.
Conclusion
In this brief guide, we answered the question “how long does tuna last in fridge” with an in-depth analysis of the shelf life of tuna in different conditions. Moreover, we discussed the different ways to tell if your tuna has gone bad and tips to prolong the shelf life of tuna.
Citations
https://www.stilltasty.com/fooditems/index/18559
https://www.stilltasty.com/fooditems/index/18562
