How Long Does Cooked Salmon Last in the Fridge?

Cooked salmon is a delicious and nutritious meal that’s great for lunch, dinner, or meal prepping. But once you’ve had your fill, you might be wondering: how long does cooked salmon last in the fridge? Knowing the right storage methods and shelf life is essential to avoid food waste and, more importantly, foodborne illness.

Cooked salmon, like most types of cooked seafood, doesn’t have an infinite lifespan once it hits the fridge. Whether it’s baked, grilled, or pan-seared, proper storage is key to keeping it safe and tasty. So, let’s break it down and cover everything you need to know—from safe storage tips to signs of spoilage.

Proper Storage Tips for Cooked Salmon

To make the most out of your leftovers, the way you store cooked salmon is just as important as how long you keep it. Here's what you need to know:

1. Use Airtight Containers

After your meal, let the salmon cool down to room temperature—don’t leave it out longer than two hours. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. This prevents bacteria from multiplying and protects the salmon from absorbing fridge odours.

2. Refrigerate Promptly

Timing matters. Salmon should be refrigerated within two hours of being cooked. If the room temperature is above 32°C (like during summer), refrigerate it within one hour to be on the safe side.

3. Label the Container

Always mark the date on your container before storing it in the fridge. That way, you can keep track of how long it’s been stored and avoid any guesswork later.

So, How Long Does Cooked Salmon Last in the Fridge?

The short answer: 3 to 4 days. This is the general guideline recommended by the USDA and most food safety authorities. Beyond that timeframe, your salmon might still look okay, but it could be growing harmful bacteria that aren’t visible or smellable.

The key factors that affect shelf life include:

• The freshness of the salmon before cooking – fresher fish lasts longer after being cooked.

• How it was cooked – high-heat cooking methods kill more bacteria.

• How quickly it was refrigerated – the faster, the better.

• Fridge temperature – it should be consistently below 4°C (40°F).

Signs That Your Cooked Salmon Has Gone Bad

Don’t rely on just the “sniff test” alone. Here’s a breakdown of the warning signs:

1. Off Smell

Spoiled salmon often gives off a strong, sour, or ammonia-like odour. If it smells odd, don’t eat it.

2. Slimy Texture

If the salmon feels unusually slippery or sticky, it’s a sign of bacterial growth. Even if it’s only been a couple of days, texture changes are not to be ignored.

3. Discolouration

Cooked salmon should retain its pinkish or orange hue. If it turns dull, greyish, or brown, it’s best to throw it away.

4. Mould

This one's a no-brainer. If you see any signs of mould—green, white, or black patches—toss it immediately.

Can You Freeze Cooked Salmon?

Absolutely. If you don’t think you’ll eat your salmon within the 3–4 day window, freezing is your next best bet. Frozen cooked salmon can last up to three months without sacrificing too much flavour or texture.

Freezing Tips:

• Use freezer-safe bags or containers.

• Label with the date frozen.

• Try to eliminate as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

When you’re ready to eat it, thaw in the fridge overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as that encourages bacterial growth.

Ways to Use Leftover Cooked Salmon

Instead of letting your salmon sit forgotten in the fridge, here are a few tasty ways to repurpose it:

• Salmon Salad – Mix with greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette.

• Salmon Pasta – Flake it into a creamy garlic pasta dish.

• Salmon Cakes – Combine with breadcrumbs, egg, and herbs, then fry.

• Salmon Fried Rice – Quick and tasty with veggies and soy sauce.

• Breakfast Scramble – Add it to scrambled eggs for a protein boost.

Is Reheating Cooked Salmon Safe?

Yes, as long as it’s done properly. The key is to heat it to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). Here are a few reheating methods:

Microwave

Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and prevent dryness. Reheat in 30-second bursts.

Oven

Wrap in foil and bake at 150°C (300°F) for 10–15 minutes.

Stovetop

Use a non-stick pan over low heat and cover with a lid to steam it gently.

Avoid reheating more than once. Once reheated, eat it all or toss any leftovers.

Why the Fridge Timeline Matters

Understanding how long does cooked salmon last in the fridge is not just about keeping things fresh—it’s a safety issue. Salmon is rich in protein and omega-3s, but it's also susceptible to bacteria like Listeria and Salmonella when not stored correctly.

These bacteria can cause serious illness, especially for children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. If in doubt, throw it out.

Final Thoughts

So, to circle back—how long does cooked salmon last in the fridge? The golden rule is 3 to 4 days, stored properly in an airtight container at a temperature below 4°C. If you're not planning to eat it within that time, toss it in the freezer and enjoy it later.

Being cautious with leftovers doesn’t mean you’re wasting food—it means you’re protecting your health. And with the right storage and reheating techniques, you’ll enjoy your salmon just as much the second time around.

FAQs

Q: Can I eat salmon after 5 days in the fridge?
A: It's not recommended. After 4 days, the risk of bacterial growth increases. Even if it looks or smells fine, it may no longer be safe.

Q: Does the fridge temperature affect salmon storage?
A: Yes, it must be kept below 4°C (40°F). Anything higher increases the risk of spoilage.

Q: What’s the best container for storing cooked salmon?
A: Airtight glass or BPA-free plastic containers are ideal. Avoid leaving it uncovered or loosely wrapped.