Seafood
How long does caviar last in the fridge?
An unopened jar of caviar keeps 1–4 weeks in the coldest part of the fridge but only 2 days once the seal is broken — open it the day you’re serving it.
How long does it keep?
| Fridge, from purchase | 1–4 weeks |
|---|---|
| Fridge, opened | 2 days |
| Freezer | Not recommended |
Can it sit out?
Caviar is perishable — the FSIS 2-hour rule applies.
Perishable food left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be thrown out — 1 hour if it’s 90°F or hotter (a picnic, a hot car, a summer kitchen).
How to tell if caviar has gone bad
- Eggs gone cloudy or collapsed into paste
- A sour or metallic smell over the brine
- Oil separating and pooling at the edge of the tin
When in doubt, throw it out.
Serve it over ice with a mother-of-pearl or plastic spoon — metal leaves a tinny taste on the eggs.
Quick answers
How long does caviar last in the fridge?
An unopened jar of caviar keeps 1–4 weeks in the coldest part of the fridge but only 2 days once the seal is broken — open it the day you’re serving it.
Can you freeze caviar?
USDA lists freezing as “Not recommended” for caviar.
How long can caviar sit out?
The FSIS 2-hour rule applies to caviar. Perishable food left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be thrown out — 1 hour if it’s 90°F or hotter (a picnic, a hot car, a summer kitchen).