How Long Do Canned Smoked Oysters Last Once Opened?

Shelf Life Tips

• How long does a can of smoked oysters last once opened? The precise answer depends to a large extent on storage conditions - keep opened smoked oysters refrigerated and tightly covered.
• To maximize the shelf life of canned smoked oysters after opening, refrigerate in covered glass or plastic container.
• How long do opened canned smoked oysters last in the refrigerator? Canned smoked oysters that have been continuously refrigerated will keep for about 3 to 4 days.
• Are canned smoked oysters safe to use after the "expiration" date on the package? Yes, provided they have been stored properly, the can or package is undamaged, and there are no signs of spoilage (see below) - commercially canned smoked oysters will typically carry a "Best By," "Best if Used By," "Best Before", or "Best When Used By" date but this is not a safety date, it is the manufacturer's estimate of how long the smoked oysters will remain at peak quality.
• To further extend the shelf life of opened canned smoked oysters, freeze them: to freeze canned smoked oysters, place inside covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The texture of canned smoked oysters will be softer after freezing and thawing; the thawed smoked oysters will be best suited to cooked dishes, such as sauces, soups and casseroles.
• How long do canned smoked oysters last in the freezer? Properly stored, they will maintain best quality for about 3 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
• The freezer time shown is for best quality only - smoked oysters that have been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
• How long do canned smoked oysters last after being frozen and thawed? Smoked oysters that have been defrosted in the fridge can be kept for an additional 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator before using; smoked oysters that were thawed in the microwave or in cold water should be used immediately.
• How can you tell if opened canned smoked oysters are bad or spoiled? The best way is to smell and look at the smoked oysters: if the smoked oysters develop an off odor, flavor or appearance, or if mold appears, they should be discarded.
• Discard all smoked oysters from cans or packages that are leaking, rusting, bulging or severely dented.

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