USDA FoodKeeper – Cold Storage Guidelines
Official refrigerator, freezer, and pantry timelines maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Visit USDA FoodKeeperStorage temperature, initial freshness, and how it has been handled change the answer — and those details are easy to miss.
Last reviewed: January 2026
Reviewed by the Can I Eat Expired Editorial Team using official USDA, FDA, and CDC food safety guidance. How we assess food safety risk


Discard it after the expiration date.
Get a yes / no answer for your sushi →
⚠️ Seafood spoils quickly and can cause severe food poisoning if consumed past its prime.
Fridge
32°F (0°C)
Store in an airtight container over ice
Consistent cold storage is essential for food safety. A refrigerator thermometer (Amazon) helps monitor refrigerator temperature and ensures food stays at safe levels (40°F or below).
1 day
90 days
Off smell, slimy texture, discoloration, cloudy eyes
Proper packaging helps prevent freezer burn and contamination. Using freezer-safe storage bags (Amazon) can help preserve food quality during freezer storage.
Sushi rolls, poke bowls
Smoked salmon, cooked shrimp
For sushi containing raw fish, there is a fine line between expiration and best quality. Sushi should ideally be consumed within 24 hours to enjoy its best quality in terms of taste and texture. However, raw fish in sushi can spoil quickly, so it is crucial to consume it on the same day it was prepared to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.
When determining if raw sushi has gone bad, look for any signs of discoloration, such as a dull appearance or changes in color. Check for any unusual odors, as fresh sushi should have a clean, oceanic smell. Lastly, feel the texture of the fish - it should be firm and slightly translucent, not slimy or mushy.
Sushi Fresh Raw, particularly sushi containing raw fish, carries the risk of foodborne illnesses such as Vibrio, Salmonella, and parasites like Anisakis. To reduce these risks, it is essential to ensure the sushi is prepared fresh and stored at proper temperatures.
To store sushi fresh raw properly, it should be kept refrigerated at temperatures below 40°F (4°C) to slow down bacterial growth. It is best to consume sushi on the same day it is made for optimal freshness. If storing for a short period, place the sushi in an airtight container and cover it with damp paper towels to prevent it from drying out.
Sushi has a rich cultural significance in Japan where it originated. It is not just a dish but an art form that represents the harmony of flavors, textures, and colors. In Japanese culture, the preparation and presentation of sushi are highly valued, and sushi chefs undergo years of training to master the craft.
If Sushi Fresh Raw has been left out at room temperature for 2 hours, it's best to discard it to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Seafood, especially raw fish, is highly perishable and can quickly grow harmful bacteria at room temperature.
Once opened, Sushi Fresh Raw should be consumed immediately for the best quality and safety. Raw seafood like sushi is prone to bacterial contamination, so it's best not to keep it for more than a few hours after opening.
Yes, the type of container can impact the shelf life of Sushi Fresh Raw. It is recommended to store it in an airtight container to minimize exposure to air and bacteria. Avoid storing it in containers made of materials that can react with the seafood.
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 ExtensionImportant: These are general guidelines based on authoritative sources listed above. Always use your best judgment and when in doubt, throw it out.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our site and allows us to continue providing free food safety information.