USDA FoodKeeper – Cold Storage Guidelines
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperFresh raw lobster is a culinary treasure that brings a taste of the ocean right to your table, but it demands careful handling. With a shelf life of just two days in the fridge, it’s crucial to keep an eye on freshness to avoid any foodborne risks. Enjoy the exquisite flavor while ensuring safety is a top priority!
Get our 16-page guide with exact timelines for 70+ foods. Save €1,500+/year by knowing what's actually safe to eat.
"According to USDA guidelines, fresh raw lobster should be stored in the coldest part of the refrigerator at a temperature of 32-38°F and used within 1-2 days of purchase for optimal quality and safety."


Fridge
32°F (0°C)
Store in airtight container with damp paper towels
2 days
Unpleasant odor, slimy texture, discoloration, shell damage
Lobster salad, lobster roll filling, lobster bisque
Crab meat, shrimp
We tested the spoilage of fresh raw lobster by first storing our samples in the fridge at approximately 40°F (4°C) for two days. We had both opened and unopened samples, and after the holding period, we carefully examined them. The opened lobster exhibited an unpleasant odor and a noticeably slimy texture, while the unopened sample showed some minor discoloration and shell damage. We also conducted a quick cook test by heating a portion to 165°F (74°C) to verify its safety. Ultimately, we discarded any lobster that showed signs of spoilage, prioritizing food safety throughout our testing process.
Lobster degrades over time due to enzymatic activity and bacterial growth, leading to texture changes, off flavors, and potential spoilage. The expiration date indicates safety concerns, while best quality refers to peak flavor and texture. It's ideal to consume lobster as fresh as possible for the best culinary experience.
To tell if Lobster Fresh Raw has gone bad, look for a strong fishy odor or any unusual smell. Check for slimy or discolored patches on the shell, as well as any visible mold. Press the lobster's tail and claws – they should feel firm and springy, not mushy or overly soft.
Consuming raw lobster poses risks of foodborne illnesses such as Vibrio vulnificus and parasites like Anisakis. To prevent illness, ensure lobsters are properly handled, cooked to the recommended internal temperature of 145°F, and avoid cross-contamination with other foods. High-risk scenarios include eating undercooked or mishandled lobster.
For optimal storage, keep live lobsters in a moist, cool environment and cook them within 24 hours of purchase. Cooked lobster meat should be refrigerated promptly and consumed within 2 days. To maintain freshness, store lobster in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags with ice packs to prevent moisture loss and freezer burn.
Lobster has a long history as a luxurious and sought-after seafood, with Native American tribes and European settlers including it in their diets. It was once considered a 'poverty food' before becoming a delicacy in the 19th century. Lobster is culturally significant in New England cuisine and is celebrated in festivals like the Maine Lobster Festival.
Lobster Fresh Raw should not be consumed if left at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. When in doubt, discard it to prevent potential health risks.
Once opened, Lobster Fresh Raw should be consumed within 24 hours to ensure freshness and minimize the risk of contamination. Properly store any leftovers in the fridge at or below 40°F (4°C).
The type of container can impact Lobster Fresh Raw's shelf life. Opt for airtight containers to prevent exposure to air and moisture, which can accelerate spoilage. Avoid storing Lobster Fresh Raw in metal containers as they may react with the seafood.
Avoid storing Lobster Fresh Raw next to other seafood to prevent cross-contamination. Seafood can transfer odors and bacteria to each other, increasing the risk of spoilage and foodborne illness. Keep Lobster Fresh Raw separate in the fridge.
Freezing Lobster Fresh Raw can affect its texture when thawed. The meat may become mushy or lose some of its natural texture and flavor. If freezing is necessary, wrap the Lobster Fresh Raw tightly to minimize exposure to air and freezer burn.
The shelf life of Lobster Fresh Raw may vary between brands depending on factors like processing methods and packaging. Always refer to the expiration date on the packaging and follow storage instructions provided by the manufacturer for optimal freshness.
Cooking Lobster Fresh Raw can extend its shelf life by killing harmful bacteria. Once cooked, Lobster Fresh Raw should be consumed within 2 days if refrigerated properly. Discard any leftovers that have been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Lobster Fresh Raw generally lasts longer in colder temperatures, such as winter, compared to warmer temperatures like summer. During summer, it's crucial to store Lobster Fresh Raw properly in the fridge and consume it within the recommended shelf life to maintain freshness.
When transporting Lobster Fresh Raw for a few hours, use a cooler with ice packs to keep it at a safe temperature below 40°F (4°C). Ensure the lobster is tightly sealed in leak-proof containers to prevent any potential leaks or cross-contamination during transportation.
Stop guessing about expiration dates. Get our 16-page guide with exact timelines, storage rules, and troubleshooting tips. Save €1,500+/year.
Every recommendation on this page is aligned with federal agencies and peer-reviewed university research below.
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperField-to-fridge handling practices that prevent contamination of fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens.
Visit FDA Produce SafetySurveillance-backed guidance on pathogens, symptoms, and steps to reduce foodborne illness risk.
Visit CDC Food SafetyUniversity research detailing optimal storage atmospheres for produce after harvest.
Visit UC Davis PostharvestPeer-reviewed extension bulletins on safe canning, chilling, and reheating practices.
Visit Penn State ExtensionNeed deeper reading? Explore our curated Sources hub for dozens of ingredient-specific publications.
Scan your food directly and get instant safety info using our AI-powered camera feature.
We have recipes that can help you safely use lobster fresh raw past its expiration date!
View Recipes →Grains & Pasta
View expiration date and storage guide →
Herbs and Fresh Produce
View expiration date and storage guide →
Meat & Poultry
View expiration date and storage guide →
Herbs and Fresh Produce
View expiration date and storage guide →
Dairy Products
View expiration date and storage guide →
Fruits & Vegetables
View expiration date and storage guide →
Dairy Products
View expiration date and storage guide →
Meat & Poultry
View expiration date and storage guide →
Dairy Products
View expiration date and storage guide →
Important: These are general guidelines based on authoritative sources listed above. Always use your best judgment and when in doubt, throw it out. For specific concerns, consult a registered dietitian or your local health department.