Expert: Greg Shreenan - 7/30/2008

Question
Hi Greg, vakuum-packed, smoked salmon, shock-frozen, packed properly with icepacks and went on its way (for about 20 h??) via UPS. The package could not be opened immediately. Now the fish is soft, not solid frozen anymore. All the surrounding icepacks were still frozen solid. Is it safe to put the vakuum-packed smoked salmon back in the freezer?

Answer
Hi Doris,

Thanks for allowing me to help.  I have been on a river for the last week so I apologize for not getting back to you sooner.  My guess is that you have figured out everything is just fine.

The truth is that smoked salmon is cured and therefor really does not even need to be chilled.  I like it better that way but its not necessary. I love smoked salmon.  I hope yours was excellent!

Your Friend, The fish Guy Greg,

Greg