Maximizing the Shelf Life of Costco’s Shrimp Cocktail

Costco’s pre-made shrimp cocktail is a convenient option for easy snacking and entertaining. But like all fresh seafood, its shelf life is limited. So how long does Costco’s shrimp cocktail stay fresh and safe to eat?

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the shelf life of Costco’s pre-made shrimp cocktail, including:

Overview of Costco’s Shrimp Cocktail

Costco sells pre-made shrimp cocktail in both small single-serving plastic trays and larger party platters. The cocktail comes with cooked and peeled shrimp, cocktail sauce, and lemon wedges.

The shrimp is fully cooked and deveined. The tails are left on for presentation. The cocktail sauce contains ketchup horseradish, and other seasonings.

Costco sources the shrimp from various suppliers According to Reddit users, the shrimp likely comes frozen in bags like the Kirkland brand cooked shrimp sold in the freezer section.

While tasty, the shrimp cocktail does contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and high fructose corn syrup in the sauce. Those looking for a healthier option can make their own sauce.

Shelf Life of Raw vs Cooked Shrimp

The first thing to know is that raw and cooked shrimp have different shelf lives

How Long Does Raw Shrimp Last?

Raw shrimp will last for 1 to 2 days in the fridge. The freezing point is key for maximizing raw shrimp shelf life.

• Raw shrimp that has never been frozen before will last 1-2 days.
• Previously frozen raw shrimp will last several months in the freezer.

To freeze raw shrimp:

• Lay shrimp in single layer on baking sheet
• Freeze until solid
• Transfer to airtight container or freezer bag
• Store for up to 3 months

How Long Does Cooked Shrimp Last?

Cooked shrimp lasts longer than raw, but still has a relatively short shelf life. Properly stored cooked shrimp will last 3 to 4 days in the fridge.

No matter what, shrimp that has gone bad will have an unusual odor and slimy texture. Trust your senses – if it smells or feels off, throw it out.

Maximizing Shrimp Cocktail Freshness

Proper storage is key to getting the most out of your Costco shrimp cocktail purchase. Follow these tips:

• Store Shrimp Cocktail Cold: Keep shrimp chilled at 40°F or below. Store shrimp cocktail in the coldest part of the refrigerator, which is usually the bottom shelf or meat drawer.

• Seal Airtight: Whether storing raw or cooked shrimp, an airtight container or freezer bag prevents freezer burn and maintains quality.

• Allow Airflow for Raw Shrimp: Raw shrimp needs airflow to keep fresh. Leave the package open on a bowl of ice and cover with a damp paper towel if storing for over 12 hours.

• Use Promptly: Try to use shrimp within 2 days for raw, and 3-4 days for cooked. Use shrimp for seafood pasta, tacos, or shrimp salad if you won’t finish it quickly.

• Freeze for Long-Term: Freezing uncooked shrimp extends shelf life to 3 months. Freeze cooked shrimp for 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.

Follow these simple guidelines for maximum shrimp freshness and enjoyment.

What To Do If You Think Your Shrimp Has Gone Bad

Shrimp that has gone bad will have an unpleasant odor and slimy texture. Never taste shrimp you suspect is spoiled.

• Look: raw shrimp flesh should glisten and appear translucent. Off color or opaque, mushy flesh indicates spoilage.

• Smell: Fresh raw shrimp has a mild, briny scent. A sour, ammonia-like odor means toss it.

If in doubt, remember the old adage “when in doubt, throw it out.” Don’t risk foodborne illness.

Thawing and Cooking Previously Frozen Shrimp

For shrimp bought frozen and thawed, follow safe thawing and cooking steps:

• Thaw frozen shrimp for 15-20 minutes in cold water or overnight in the fridge. Do not thaw at room temp.

• Cook to 145°F. Check temperature with a food thermometer.

• Use thawed, cooked shrimp within 3-4 days. Do not refreeze thawed shrimp.

Cooking previously frozen shrimp thoroughly to the proper internal temperature kills any bacteria present.

Tips for Enjoying Costco Shrimp Cocktail

Here are some tips to make the most out of your Costco shrimp cocktail purchase:

• Order the platter – the party platter offers the best value per pound. Order 24 hours in advance.

• Split the lemons – cut each lemon wedge in half so people use them more.

• Serve ice cold – set the platter on a bed of ice to keep the shrimp chilled.

• Make cocktail sauce from scratch – skip the preservatives and high fructose corn syrup in the store sauce.

• Buy Kirkland frozen shrimp – for even more savings, make your own using Costco frozen cooked shrimp.

• Use within 2 days – eat promptly or use for seafood pasta, tacos, salad, or freeze

Following these simple guidelines ensures you safely enjoy the maximum freshness and flavor of Costco’s shrimp cocktail.

Nutrition Information for Costco Shrimp Cocktail

Costco’s pre-made shrimp cocktail offers a good source of protein, antioxidants, and vitamins.

Here are the nutrition facts for a standard 2/3 cup serving of Costco shrimp cocktail (4 ounces):

• Calories: 60
• Total Fat: 0.5g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Protein: 12g
• Vitamin A: 8%
• Vitamin C: 4%

Shrimp is considered a healthy seafood choice that is low in calories, fat, and carbs. It provides vitamins, minerals, omega-3s, and the antioxidant astaxanthin.

Just be mindful of the sodium level, as a 2/3 cup serving contains 20% of the daily value. The cocktail sauce contributes 220mg sodium per serving.

The Bottom Line

Pre-made shrimp cocktail from Costco offers easy snacking and entertaining at home. Follow these storage, freezing, and usage tips to safely optimize the shelf life of your shrimp cocktail purchase:

• Raw shrimp keeps 1-2 days; cooked shrimp 3-4 days
• Store shrimp cocktail as cold as possible without freezing
• Freeze raw shrimp for 3 months; cooked for 2-3 months
• Thaw frozen shrimp overnight in fridge or 15-20 minutes in cold water
• Discard if shrimp has an off smell or slimy texture
• Order the platter for best value; split lemons in half for serving
• Enjoy within 2 days for peak freshness and flavor

Following these simple guidelines allows you to conveniently enjoy shrimp cocktail while minimizing food waste and risk of foodborne illness. Just remember to keep it cold and use promptly for optimal quality.