As part of our freeze food and save money series we’re sharing how to refrigerate and freeze fish. Did you know Americans waste 30 to 40% of the food supply? Learning how to store and freeze fish properly will save you money and reduce food waste. You can avoid wasting food by knowing proper expiration dates of fish and shellfish.

Health Benefits of Freezing Fish

Fatty fish like salmon, trout and tuna are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids. Replacing meat with fish is less expensive and healthier because meat has saturated fats. Check out this definitive list of fish types to find the difference between lean and the healthier fatty fish.

Can You Freeze Smoked Salmon?

You can freeze smoked salmon for up to 6 months if you bought it cold, fresh and vacuum-packed. Your freezer needs to be at least 0° F (-18° C). When you decide to thaw your salmon, you need to keep it in your fridge. Don’t use cold water or a microwave. Oh, and don’t get any fancy ideas about refreezing your smoked fish after you’ve thawed it. The taste and quality will be affected negatively.

Can You Freeze Tuna Salad?

You can freeze tuna salad for up to a week if you cut down on the mayo. The oils in mayonnaise do not freeze well. Low in carbohydrates and high in protein, tuna salad is a convenient and healthy lunch. Fill serving size containers and the salad will freeze better. Here’s a great tuna salad recipe for freezing.

Shelf Life Guide for Freezing Fish and Refrigerating

Fish - Cooked

Freezer: 4 to 6 Months

Fridge: 3 to 4 Days

Fatty Fish – Uncooked

Freezer: 2 to 3 Months

Fridge: 1 to 2 Days

Lean Fish – Uncooked

Freezer: 6 Months

Fridge: 1 to 2 Days

Smoked Fish – Uncooked

Freezer: 2 Months

Fridge: 10 Days

Dried Or Pickled Fish

Freezer: Don’t Freeze

Fridge: 3 to 4 Weeks

Scallops, Crawfish, Squid – Uncooked

Freezer: 3 to 6 Months

Fridge: 1 to 2 Days

Clams And Oysters - Shucked

Freezer: 4 to 6 Months

Fridge: 1 to 2 Days

Crab

Freezer: 2 Months

Fridge: 7 Days

Lobster - Shelled Or Unshelled

Freezer: 6 to 12 Months

Fridge: 3 to 7 Days

Shrimp - Uncooked With Shell

Freezer: 9 to 12 Months

Fridge: 2 to 3 Days

Shrimp - Uncooked And Shelled

Freezer: 6 to 9 Months

Fridge: 1 to 2 Days

Shrimp - Uncooked And Frozen

Freezer: 9 to 12 Months

Fridge: 4 to 5 Days

Shrimp – Cooked

Freezer: 6 to 9 Months

Fridge: 3 to 4 Days

Canned Seafood - Out Of The Can

Freezer: 2 Months

Fridge: 3 to 4 Days