Shelf Life Tips
- How long does an opened package of pasteurized crab meat last in the fridge or freezer? The exact answer to that question depends to a large extent on storage conditions - keep pasteurized crab meat refrigerated at all times.
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To maximize the shelf life of opened pasteurized crab meat for safety and quality, refrigerate the crab meat in shallow airtight containers or wrap tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
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Properly stored, an opened package of pasteurized crab meat will last for 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator.
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How long can pasteurized crab meat be left at room temperature? Bacteria grow rapidly at temperatures between 40 °F and 140 °F; pasteurized crab meat should be discarded if left out for more than 2 hours at room temperature.
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To further extend the shelf life of opened pasteurized crab meat, freeze it; freeze in covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, or wrap tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil or freezer wrap.
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How long does pasteurized crab meat last in the freezer? Properly stored, it will maintain best quality for 3 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
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The freezer time shown is for best quality only - pasteurized crab meat that has been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
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How long does pasteurized crab meat last after being frozen and thawed? Pasteurized crab meat that has been thawed in the fridge can be kept for an additional 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator before cooking; crab meat that was thawed in the microwave or in cold water should be eaten immediately.
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How to tell if pasteurized crab meat is bad? The best way is to smell and look at the crab meat: discard any that has an off smell or appearance, do not taste first.
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