Seafood
Cooked

Cooked ShrimpShelf Life, Storage, and Spoilage Guide

Sourced from
USDA FoodSafety.govFDA

Pantry

Not Recommended

Unsafe

Cooked shrimp should not be stored at room temperature. Refrigerate promptly.

Refrigerator

3-4 days

Store cooked shrimp in a shallow, airtight container to ensure rapid cooling and prevent contamination. Place in the coldest part of the refrigerator.

Freezer

3-6 months

For best quality, freeze cooked shrimp in airtight freezer bags or containers. Thaw safely in the refrigerator, never at room temperature.

Signs of Spoilage

  • Sour or ammonia-like odor
  • Slimy or sticky texture
  • Dull or discolored appearance
  • Presence of mold

Room Temperature Safety

Perishable foods, including cooked shrimp, should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the ambient temperature is above 90°F (32°C), the limit is 1 hour.

The 'Danger Zone' for bacterial growth is between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C). Cooked shrimp should not remain in this temperature range.

Always refrigerate cooked shrimp promptly. If left out for too long, discard it to prevent foodborne illness, even if it looks and smells fine.

Expert Tips

Safe Handling

1

Refrigerate cooked shrimp within 2 hours of cooking (1 hour if ambient temperature is above 90°F/32°C).

2

Avoid cross-contamination by keeping cooked shrimp separate from raw foods, using separate cutting boards and utensils.

3

When reheating cooked shrimp, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

4

Thaw frozen cooked shrimp in the refrigerator, under cold running water, or in the microwave. Never thaw at room temperature.

Related Items

Comparisons

Cooked FishSimilar storage guidelines for most cooked seafood.
Fridge
3-4 days
Freezer
3-6 months
Raw ShrimpRaw shrimp has a shorter fridge life than cooked shrimp.
Fridge
1-2 days
Freezer
3-6 months
Cooked ChickenSimilar fridge duration, but cooked chicken can be frozen for a slightly shorter period for best quality.
Fridge
3-4 days
Freezer
2-6 months