ShelfLife
How long does imitation crab last?
Surimi, or imitation crab, keeps until the use-by date on the package in the fridge, and about 9 months in the freezer. Once opened, eat it within a few days.
| Food | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Surimi, imitation crab | Until the use-by date | 9 monthsfrom purchase |
Fridge at 4 °C (40 °F) or colder, freezer at −18 °C (0 °F). Freezer times are for best quality: food kept frozen stays safe, but slowly loses taste and texture. These times are USDA guidance, not a guarantee. When in doubt, throw it out.
How to tell if imitation crab has gone bad
- A sour or strong fishy smell.
- A slimy surface or a bloated package.
- Discolored, dull or mushy sticks, or mold.
How to store imitation crab
- Keep it in the fridge, in its package until you open it.
- Once opened, wrap the rest tightly or keep it in a sealed container.
- Don't leave it out for more than 2 hours, in a salad or on a platter.
Can you freeze imitation crab?
Yes, for about 9 months. Freeze it in its sealed pack or in a freezer bag. Thawed surimi is softer and wetter, so use it in cooked dishes, soups or salads with dressing.
Questions
Is imitation crab cooked?
Yes, surimi is made from cooked fish paste, so it can be eaten cold from the package.
How long does opened imitation crab last?
A few days in the fridge, tightly wrapped, and never past the use-by date.
What is surimi made of?
Mostly white fish such as pollock, minced and shaped, with starch, egg white and crab flavoring.
Add surimi to ShelfLife when you open the pack.
Related foods
Storage times: USDA FoodKeeper (Food Safety and Inspection Service), public domain. Text by ShelfLife.