How do you know if Shrimp (raw) has gone bad?

Shrimp (raw) has likely gone bad if you notice black spots, faded or grey shells; ammonia or strong fishy smell; slimy or mushy texture. When in doubt, throw it out.

How long can Shrimp (raw) sit out before it goes bad?

Shrimp (raw) should not be left out more than 2 hours (1 hour above 90°F / 32°C). Refrigerate promptly.

How Long Does Shrimp (Raw) Last?

Q: How long does Shrimp (raw) last in the fridge?

Shrimp (raw) lasts 1–2 days in the refrigerator. Store raw shrimp over ice in the fridge and use within a day or two. Frozen shrimp is best thawed in the fridge or under cold running water, never at room temperature.

Q: Can you freeze Shrimp (raw)?

Yes, Shrimp (raw) can be frozen for 3–6 months.

Shrimp (Raw) keeps 1–2 days in the refrigerator and 3–6 months in the freezer, according to cited USDA/FDA storage references.

2 cited USDA/FDA/FSIS sources
Editorial review · Verified June 2026

1–2 days

Safe range

3–6 months

Safe range

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Based on USDA/FSIS guidance:

Fresh fish and shellfish should be used within 1 to 2 days of purchase and kept on ice in the coldest part of the refrigerator.

The cited storage data lists 1–2 days refrigerated for this food. Source

Cook shrimp until opaque and firm, with the flesh curled into a loose C. An ammonia smell means it has spoiled — discard it.

How to tell if it's gone bad

Look:Black spots, faded or grey shells
Smell:Ammonia or strong fishy smell
Texture:Slimy or mushy texture

When in doubt, throw it out. If Shrimp (Raw) smells, looks, or feels off — discard it. Food poisoning is not worth the risk.

Can you freeze Shrimp (Raw)?

Yes.Shrimp (Raw)keeps 3–6 monthsin the freezer when stored in airtight packaging.

Raw shrimp freeze very well, especially shell-on, since the shell shields the delicate flesh. Freeze them in a single layer, then bag with the air pressed out, or pack them in a tub topped up with water to form a protective ice block. Use within 3–6 months. Thaw in the fridge or under cold running water, then cook promptly.

Full freezing guide →

How to store Shrimp (Raw)

Keep Shrimp (Raw) covered in the refrigerator. Use the refrigerator duration shown above for this food state.
Package Shrimp (Raw) tightly for the freezer and label the stored date. Use the freezer duration shown above for this food state.
Keep raw Shrimp (Raw) sealed below ready-to-eat foods so leaks cannot drip onto them.

Storage tips

Store raw shrimp over ice in the fridge and use within a day or two. Frozen shrimp is best thawed in the fridge or under cold running water, never at room temperature.

Is it still good?

Enter when you bought or opened it and where it's stored.

Common questions

How long can Shrimp (raw) sit out before it goes bad?: Shrimp (raw) should not be left out more than 2 hours (1 hour above 90°F / 32°C). Refrigerate promptly.

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