How Long Does Costco Salmon Last in the Fridge?

Salmon is one of the most popular and coveted types of fish. With its bright orange-red color, buttery texture, and rich flavor, it’s no wonder salmon is a favorite for many. Buying salmon from wholesalers like Costco can be an affordable way to enjoy this delicious fish. However, proper storage is essential to keep salmon fresh and safe to eat. So how long does Costco salmon last in the fridge?

Overview of Costco Salmon

Costco sells fresh, skin-on salmon fillets in vacuum sealed packages. The salmon is Atlantic farm-raised salmon, which makes up about 70% of salmon sold in the US It has a milder flavor and lighter pink color compared to wild salmon. Costco salmon is harvested from sustainable fish farms and delivered fresh to warehouses within 24 hours of packaging. It arrives at a perfect state of freshness.

The sell-by date printed on Costco salmon packages indicates the last day it should be sold by the retailer. It is not an expiration date, but a guideline for peak quality. The salmon remains fresh for a period after that date. So how long does the freshness last once you bring it home?

Shelf Life of Raw Salmon

In general, raw salmon that has been continuously refrigerated will keep for 3 to 4 days after the printed sell-by date before losing its freshness and flavor Here are some tips for maximizing the shelf life

• Store salmon in the coldest part of the refrigerator, at a temperature of 32°F to 34°F. The colder it is kept, the longer it will last.

• Keep the salmon in its original airtight, vacuum sealed packaging. This prevents drying out and shields it from freezer burn odors.

• Once opened, rewrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap to block air exposure. Air causes faster deterioration.

• Don’t store raw salmon for longer than 2 days after opening the package. An opened vacuum seal drastically reduces its shelf life.

With proper refrigeration, you can enjoy raw Costco salmon for up to 4 days past the sell-by date printed on the package. For maximum freshness, try to cook it within 3 days of bringing it home.

Signs Salmon Has Gone Bad

It’s important to watch for signs of spoilage before eating Costco salmon. Here’s how to tell if salmon has gone bad:

• Slimy texture – Salmon flesh should be firm. If it feels excessively slippery, don’t eat it.

• Fishy odor – Fresh salmon has a mild scent. A strong “fishy” smell means it’s starting to spoil.

• Discoloration – The flesh should retain its characteristic pink-orange hue. Grayish or dull brown patches indicate decay.

• Dry, shrunken texture – Salmon should be moist with a glossy sheen. Wrinkled, dry fillets are past their prime.

• Milky substance – Draining liquid from thawed salmon is normal. But if the exuded fluid is opaque white, it’s a sign of bacteria growth.

When in doubt, remember the old adage – “when fish smells fishy, throw it out and don’t eat it.” Rely on your senses.

Freezing and Thawing Costco Salmon

For longer storage, Costco salmon can be frozen. Properly frozen salmon keeps for 2 to 3 months in the freezer without losing texture or flavor. Here are some tips:

• Freeze salmon on the day of purchase for maximum freshness. Freeze immediately after opening package.

• Slice salmon into individual fillets or meal-size portions before freezing. This prevents repeated thawing of the whole package.

• Use airtight freezer bags or wrap tightly in freezer paper. Exclude as much air as possible.

• Label packages with type of salmon and date frozen. Place in coldest part of freezer at 0°F.

• Thaw frozen salmon overnight in the fridge. Thawing at room temperature risks bacterial growth on the exterior before the inner flesh thaws.

• Cook salmon within 1 to 2 days after thawing. Don’t refreeze thawed salmon.

How to Cook Costco Salmon

Costco salmon can be prepared many ways. Some popular cooking methods include:

• Baked salmon – The most common way to prepare salmon fillets. Bake at 400°F for 10-15 minutes depending on thickness.

• Grilled salmon – Delicious cooked on a preheated grill for 6-8 minutes per side. Charred exterior with tender interior.

• Broiled salmon – For easy weeknight dinners, broil 4-5 minutes per side under high heat.

• Poached salmon – Submerge salmon fillet in barely simmering liquid like broth or wine for 4-7 minutes.

• Smoked salmon – Cure raw salmon in salt/sugar blend then hot or cold smoke for rich flavor.

• Canned salmon – For longer shelf life, canned salmon stays safe to eat for 3-5 years when sealed.

No matter how you cook it, Costco salmon makes a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. Follow the storage times, thawing methods, and freshness rules outlined here, and you can safely enjoy every last bite of this fish.

The Bottom Line

So how long does Costco salmon last in the fridge? The printed sell-by date is a helpful guideline, but not a definitive expiration date. Properly stored raw salmon will maintain quality and freshness for 3 to 4 days past the sell-by date. For best flavor and texture, try to cook refrigerated Costco salmon within 3 days of purchase. Look for signs of spoilage like odor and slime before eating. With proper freezing techniques, the shelf life can be extended to 2-3 months. Cooked salmon should be eaten within 3 to 4 days. Following these tips will help you get the most out of your Costco salmon purchase.