Shrimp

The answer

Raw shrimp lasts 3–5 days in the fridge and 6–18 months in the freezer.

Caution Cook shrimp until the flesh is pearly and opaque.

How long it keeps

Fridge (40°F) 3–5 days safe window
Freezer (0°F) 6–18 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.

By state & packaging

State Fridge Freezer
Raw, shell on or peeled 3–5 days 6–18 months
Cooked 3–4 days 2–3 months

Signs it has gone bad

Ammonia smell
Slimy shells or flesh
Black spots spreading on the shell

FAQ

Does shrimp that smells like ammonia mean it has gone bad?

Yes. An ammonia smell is a clear spoilage sign in shrimp. Discard it — cooking will not make it safe.