Lobster
The answer
Cook live lobster the same day. After cooking, meat lasts 3–4 days in the fridge.
Caution Do not cook lobster that died before cooking. Refrigerate cooked meat promptly.
How long it keeps
Fridge (40°F) Cook live same day; cooked 3–4 days safe window
Freezer (0°F) Cooked meat ~3 months best quality
Room temp Keep live lobster cool and moist then discard
Discard Discard if held above 40°F for more than 2 hours, or above 90°F for more than 1 hour.
By state & packaging
State Fridge Freezer
Live Cook while alive (same day) Do not freeze live
Cooked meat 3–4 days ~3 months
Signs it has gone bad
✕ Dead before cooking
✕ Ammonia smell in cooked meat
✕ Slimy texture
FAQ
Can I refrigerate a live lobster overnight?
Plan to cook it the same day. If it dies before cooking, discard it rather than cooking it.