Seafood
How long does pasteurized crab meat last once opened?
An unopened tub of pasteurized crab meat keeps 10–12 months in the fridge, but 3–5 days once you open it — after that seal breaks, treat it like fresh crab.
How long does it keep?
| Fridge, from purchase | 10–12 months |
|---|---|
| Fridge, opened | 3–5 days |
| Freezer, from purchase | 4–10 months |
Can it sit out?
Pasteurized crab meat 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 pasteurized crab meat has gone bad
- A bulged lid, or a hiss when the seal breaks
- A sour, sulfurous smell on opening
- Meat gone yellow-gray or soupy in its own liquid
When in doubt, throw it out.
Pasteurized meat is wetter and softer than fresh — press it dry in a towel before it goes into cakes or dip.
Quick answers
How long does pasteurized crab meat last once opened?
An unopened tub of pasteurized crab meat keeps 10–12 months in the fridge, but 3–5 days once you open it — after that seal breaks, treat it like fresh crab.
Can you freeze pasteurized crab meat?
USDA’s freezer window for pasteurized crab meat is 4–10 months.
How long can pasteurized crab meat sit out?
The FSIS 2-hour rule applies to pasteurized crab meat. 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).