If you’re wondering about the shelf life of tuna steak in the refrigerator, we’re here to provide some guidance.
Like any perishable food item, proper storage plays a vital role in maintaining its freshness.
In this article, we’ll explore the factors that affect the shelf life of tuna steak in the fridge, offering insights into how long you can expect it to last and tips for ensuring optimal quality.
So, let’s dive in and discover how to make the most of your tuna steak!
Table of contents
Storage Timings When Refrigerating Fresh Tuna Steaks
You can keep a fresh piece of tuna steak in the fridge for 1-2 days after purchase.
It is basic food safety knowledge to keep raw fish in the fridge before cooking.
The temperature conditions and low oxygen levels prevent bad bacteria growth.
But what are the exact timings for tuna steaks?
See below where I have covered fresh, cooked, as well as frozen tuna.
How Long Can You Keep Fresh Tuna Steaks In The Fridge?
You can keep a fresh piece of tuna steak in the fridge for 1-2 days after purchase.
Thawed and Refrigerated Tuna Steak
A completely defrosted tuna steak needs to be eaten on the day of thawing.
Cooked Tuna Steak In The Fridge
Tuna steak can be stored for 2-3 days in the fridge after cooking.
Tip: You can preserve cooked tuna in oil which will last for 1 week.
Grilled Albacore tuna preserved in olive oil and peppercorns makes a delicious treat!
What About The Storage Conditions For Canned Tuna?
We aren’t focusing on the canned variety today as this is preserved.
Unopened canned tuna meat can be stored until the sell-by-date.
Opened canned tuna should be stored refrigerated in an airtight container for 2 days.
Reduce Contact With Oxygen When Refrigerating Tuna
Exposure to oxygen causes tuna and other meat or fish to try out.
Air also carries billions of contaminating pathogenic bacteria.
Storing in the fridge gives protection from airflow but adding an extra layer is best.
Keep uncooked tuna in the original packaging until it’s time for your meal.
Cooked meat should be stored in airtight containers.
Can These Storage Times Change For Tuna Steak Change?
As a rule of thumb, you should use the above timings as guidance.
Reading further will provide you with information on how to check for a bad tuna steak.
As there can be a few factors you want to consider when planning storage times.
Check The Expiry Date For The Tuna Steak
It is important to check the sell-by date on the original store packaging.
This will help you plan the cooking process and lower the chance of wastage.
You may have brought leftover tuna with a shorter expiry date.
My Fresh Tuna From The Fishmonger Doesn’t Have An Expiry Date
This is the way!
Always source fresh tuna from a fishmonger if available.
Have a chat with them about the product and when it was caught.
Bad tuna will have a strong fishy odor and dull color.
Your Refrigerator Can’t Keep A Constant Temperature
An old refrigerating unit can malfunction and not keep up the safe temperature range.
Check with a calibrated temperature probe to monitor the average temperature.
Note: We will cover the safe temperature ranges later!
You may also frequently be opening the door and cause temperature spikes.
Consider buying a smaller fridge for fresh meat and fish storage.
Plan Days Before Cooking The Tuna
With the clock ticking down a good tip is to plan when you are cooking.
Lowering the chances of you leaving it in the fridge for longer than required.
Tuna steaks are expensive
Plan out when you want that tasty dinner with the storage timings.
A cooking technique I live by to avoid food wastage.
Know The Safe Temperature Range For Tuna
We know extended periods out of the fridge cause bacterial growth.
But what exactly is the safe temperature range in your fridge?
And how can we accurately monitor the temperature?
The ‘Danger’ Temperature Range For Harmful Bacteria
Cooked or raw meat must be stored in the below-temperature range.
Not doing so will speed up the refrigeration times and risk food poisoning.
The temperature range that bacteria thrive at is 40°F – 140°F.
The optimum temperature in the fridge is between 0°F and 39°F.
How To Accurately Monitor The Temperature
Use a calibrated thermometer to accurately monitor the temperature of your fridge.
A meat probe for monitoring the internal temperature will do just fine.
This is a crucial item to have in your arsenal when cooking.
The Maximum Time You Can Leave Tuna Steak At Room Temp
Do not leave a fresh or thawed tuna steak at room temp for longer than 20-30 minutes.
Frozen fish can be left at room temp for up to 60 minutes.
How Will I Know If Tuna Steak Has Gone Bad?
Check The Texture Of The Tuna Steak
Tuna steaks should have a soft texture with dense proteins.
Spoiled tuna from air exposure will have a dry and firm texture.
The exterior may even be brittle and hard in extreme cases from air exposure.
Know The Color Of Bad Tuna
Fresh and safe-to-eat tuna comes in a variety of colors.
This is due to the type of tuna you have as well as the cut and fat content.
Raw tuna steaks generally have a light pink or deep red color with white fat.
A grey color indicates microbial growth and oxidization.
Green color indicated dangerous levels of bacteria.
Smell The Tuna Steaks To Be Sure
Probably the most effective way to know if fish has gone bad! Fresh fish should not have a strong odor or a typical fishy smell.
Smoke On!
Charlie
Hi, I’m Charlie, I have been meat-smoking and grilling for the past 15 years. I have an array of different smokers, thermometers, and have a love for finding the right wood and charcoal combo My favourite recipes are my EXTRA CRISPY smoked pork belly, juicy pulled pork, smoked brisket, duck poppers, and ANY SEAFOOD I grill).
I loves sharing his tips with beginners, helping them navigate the world of smoking. I find it’s not just about cooking; it’s a quest for that perfect smoky flavor.
You will usually find me playing with the kids, perfecting my brisket bark, or sipping beers with boys around the fire. Can’t wait to share all my delicious smoking and grilling recipes with you!
You can read more about me on our About Us page.
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