Spicy Shrimp

If you've got a package of spicy shrimp from the grocery store, it’s best to consume it within two days after opening - just to be fully on the safe side. If it's still sealed in the original packaging, you can usually trust the 'use by' date printed on the packet, but definitely not more than a week past it. If your spicy shrimp is homemade and refrigerated, it usually lasts for about two days. Frozen spicy shrimp, on the other hand, can last up to six months if stored properly.

Telling if shrimp has gone bad can be a bit tricky, but here's how to do it. First, there's the smell. Fresh shrimp have a mild, slightly salty smell. If your shrimp smells strongly of ammonia or has a sour, pungent odor, it's likely bad and you should discard it. Secondly, the appearance. Good shrimp should be shiny and translucent. If it's slimy, dried out, or its color has faded, chances are it's no good. Finally, if there's a lot of liquid in the package, that can be a sign of decomposition - so beware!

• Always store shrimp in the coldest part of your fridge. This slows bacterial growth, extending its shelf life. • Don’t leave it at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria grows rapidly at temperatures between 40 °F and 140 °F. • If you're not planning on eating it in the next two days, freezing is your best option. Store the shrimp (spicy or otherwise) in a sealed, airtight bag - squeeze out any excess air before freezing. • Defrost frozen shrimp in the fridge, not at room temperature. This way, it remains at a safe temperature during defrosting, helping to prevent bacterial growth.