shrimp

Ask a Dietition July 2008

Question: I took a bag of shrimp out of my freezer and the shrimp were covered with ice crystals. Are they okay to eat? How long can you keep shrimp in the freezer before it goes bad? Thanks! Jake N. Answer: Hi Jake--Ice crystals are not all that uncommon in frozen foods and are not an indication that the food has gone bad. Freezing at 0ºF (-18ºC) keeps food safe indefinitely but over time, you can expect a decrease in quality. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), shrimp can be stored in the freezer for three to six months. For maximum freezer freshness, store shrimp (and all other foods for that matter) in an airtight container or ziptop freezer bag. When storing protein foods such as seafood, beef, or poultry in their original package, overwrap with heavy-duty aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or freezer paper, or place inside a plastic bag. This helps to maintain freshness longer. As long as your shrimp have not been frozen for years, feel free to wash away those ice crystals and eat up!

Ask a dietition

  • I know that shrimp and other fish are a good source of heart-healthy omega-3 fats – but now I’m seeing omega-3s in all sorts of products in the grocery store.  Does this mean that if I eat these other foods it’s not as important to eat my 2 servings of seafood a week?

    Best-
    John D.
    Austin, TX

    FIND OUT THE ANSWER

We already know that shrimp is low in fat and calories. But if you are concerned about cholesterol, there is good news. You do not have to give up shrimp! Research shows and dietitians concur that the high percentage of "good fats" in shrimp reduces the impact of cholesterol. So enjoy shrimp as part of a balanced - and delicious - diet.