Shelf Life Tips
- How long does raw tilapia last in the fridge or freezer? The precise answer depends to a large extent on storage conditions - keep tilapia refrigerated at all times.
-
How long does raw tilapia last after the sell-by date? After tilapia is purchased, it may be refrigerated for 1 to 2 days - the "sell-by" date on the package may expire during that storage period, but the tilapia will remain safe to use after the sell by date if it has been properly stored.
-
Unopened raw tilapia may be kept in its original store packaging when refrigerating; to maximize the shelf life of tilapia, do not open the package until ready to use.
-
How long can raw tilapia be left at room temperature? Bacteria grow rapidly at temperatures between 40 °F and 140 °F; tilapia should be discarded if left out for more than 2 hours at room temperature.
-
To further extend the shelf life of raw tilapia, freeze; when freezing, place tilapia in the freezer before the number of days shown for refrigerator storage has elapsed.
-
You can maximize the shelf life of tilapia in the freezer by overwrapping the original store packaging with airtight heavy-duty aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or freezer paper or place the package inside a heavy-duty freezer bag in order to prevent freezer burn.
-
How long does raw tilapia last in the freezer? Properly stored, it will maintain best quality for about 6 to 8 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
-
The freezer time shown is for best quality only - tilapia that has been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
-
How long does raw tilapia last after being frozen and thawed? Tilapia that has been defrosted in the fridge can be kept for an additional 1 to 2 days in the refrigerator before cooking; tilapia that was thawed in the microwave or in cold water should be cooked immediately.
-
How long does tilapia last in the fridge once it is cooked? Cooked tilapia will usually stay good for 3 to 4 days in the fridge and 4 months in the freezer.
-
How to tell if raw tilapia is bad? The best way is to smell and look at the tilapia: signs of bad tilapia are a sour smell, dull color and slimy texture; discard any tilapia with an off smell or appearance.
About Our Authors
Sources: For details about data sources used for food storage information, please click here
