Expiration & Storage Tips
When does cod expire?
Cod, like most fresh fish, should ideally be used on the day of purchase, or within two days if refrigerated at below 4 degrees Celsius (about 40 degrees F). Unopened, vacuum-sealed cod can last up to two weeks in the fridge at similar temperatures. Once vacuum-sealed packaging is opened, consume the fish within two days. If freezing, a whole cod or cod fillets can last somewhere between 6-9 months, but quality might decline after 3 months. It's best to defrost frozen cod overnight in the refrigerator.
How do you tell if cod is bad?
Begin by checking for any obvious signs like an off odor or slimy texture, a surefire sign that your cod has gone bad is if it emits a strong, unpleasant fishy smell. Good, fresh cod should have a mild, salty scent, similar to the sea. Additionally, if the flesh is fading or discoloring to a milky white or yellow, it’s best to discard it. Remember, fresh cod fillets should be white to off-white in color, and whole fish should have clear, shiny, and bulging eyes.
Tips for storing cod to extend shelf life
• Keep the fish in its original packaging, or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store the cod in the coldest part of your refrigerator, ideally the bottom drawer, where temperature is usually more constant.
• If you don't plan to consume it right away, consider freezing it immediately after purchase. When doing so, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and put it in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
• Defrost frozen fish in the fridge overnight, not on the countertop at room temperature, to prevent bacteria growth.
• Do not refreeze fish once it has been defrosted.