Guide to Storing, Freezing, and Reheating Crab Legs Safely

Crab legs are a luxury treat, and nothing is more heartbreaking than throwing away expensive seafood because it spoiled. Whether you have leftovers from a feast or bought a frozen pack, proper storage is key to protecting your investment and your health.

How Long Do Crab Legs Last?

Most crab legs sold in stores are already cooked and flash-frozen on the boat. Here is how long they stay safe once they reach your home:

Fresh / Thawed (King, Snow, Dungeness)

• Refrigerator: Lasts 2–4 days.

Frozen

• Freezer: Lasts 9–12 months (270–360 days).

Storage Tip: If you buy them frozen, keep them frozen until the day you plan to eat them. Thawing and refreezing ruins the delicate texture.

How to Tell if Crab Legs Are Bad

Seafood spoilage is dangerous. Do not taste test if you suspect they are bad. Look for these warning signs:

1. The Sniff Test: This is your best tool. Spoiled crab smells strongly of ammonia (like window cleaner) or has a sour, rancid odor. Fresh crab smells mild and sweet.
2. Slimy Surface: If the shell or meat feels slimy or tacky to the touch, bacteria have taken over.
3. Discoloration: Look for blackening or browning of the shell or meat. While some “blueing” can happen naturally, dark spots often indicate age or poor handling.
4. Dryness: Dried or desiccated tips (freezer burn) mean the crab is safe to eat but will be tough and flavorless.

How to Store Crab Legs Properly

In the Fridge

1. Wrap the crab legs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
2. Place them in an airtight container or a heavy-duty Ziploc bag.
3. Store them in the coldest part of your fridge (usually the bottom).

In the Freezer

1. If the original packaging is open or torn, wrap the legs in heavy-duty foil.
2. Place the wrapped legs inside a freezer-safe bag.
3. Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn (white, dry patches).

Reheating Tips (Don’t Ruin the Meat!)

Since most crab legs are pre-cooked, you are just warming them up. Overcooking makes them rubbery.

• Steam: The best method. Steam for 4-6 minutes until heated through.
• Bake: Wrap in foil with a splash of water and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
• Boil: Boil for 3-5 minutes. Be careful, as this can wash away some flavor.

FAQs

Can you refreeze crab legs?

We advise against it. Refreezing causes cell walls to break, making the meat mushy and watery. Only do it if absolutely necessary and if the crab was thawed safely in the fridge.

What is the “Ammonia” smell?

It’s a byproduct of protein decomposition. If you smell ammonia, the proteins in the crab are breaking down rapidly. Do not eat it.