Expert: Carol Schlitt - 11/12/2006

Question
how long is it safe to eat vacuum packed salmon that has not been refrigerated?

Answer
Hi Mike,

I assume by your question you are asking how long will vacuum packed smoked salmon that is in a heavy metallic pouch in outer cardboard container remain safe to consume. If so this product is shelf stable at room temperature for 1 year if unopened. After opening, you should refrigerate the salmon and use within 2 days.

If you are talking about a vacuum packed salmon that was received frozen and/or labeled "Keep Refrigerated" then you have 7 days unopened and 2 days after opening. If you store it in the freezer you have 2 months.

For a complete listing of food gifts and their storage, shelf-life expectancy, please see this website: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/Fact_Sheets/Mail_Order_Food_Safety_Table/index.asp

I hope this answers your question. If you should have additional questions please let me know.

Carol