Crab
The answer
Fresh crab meat lasts 2–4 days in the fridge and 2–4 months in the freezer.
Caution Keep crab meat iced or refrigerated. Live crabs should be cooked while still alive.
How long it keeps
Fridge (40°F) 2–4 days safe window
Freezer (0°F) 2–4 months best quality
Room temp 2 hours max then discard
Discard Discard if held above 40°F for more than 2 hours, or above 90°F for more than 1 hour.
The answer
Cooked crab leftovers last 3–4 days in the fridge and about 3 months in the freezer.
How long it keeps
Fridge (40°F) 3–4 days safe window
Freezer (0°F) 3 months best quality
Room temp 2 hours max then discard
Discard Discard after 4 days in the fridge.
By state & packaging
State Fridge Freezer
Fresh crab meat 2–4 days 2–4 months
Live crab Cook same day while alive Do not freeze live
Cooked leftover 3–4 days 3 months
Signs it has gone bad
✕ Ammonia smell
✕ Slimy meat
✕ Sour odor
FAQ
How long is fresh crab meat good?
2–4 days refrigerated per cold-storage guidance. Freeze sooner if needed.