As an expensive luxury delicacy, caviar is a food that no one wants to put to waste. So if you’re looking to buy a tin or two for a party or for your own personal enjoyment, it helps to know how long caviar can last to make sure you consume your purchase before it starts to turn.
How to Properly Store Caviar
Chilled caviar should always be stored in a refrigerator, at about 32 F, preferably on a sealed bag of ice to maintain the ideal temperature. Whether you’re storing an opened container or a sealed tin from the store, make sure to keep it in your fridge’s bottom drawer (or coldest part), if necessary, on a bag of ice. Frozen caviar should be kept in the freezer and thawed under refrigeration. Once thawed caviar should be stored as chilled.
If you’re hoping to store caviar that’s already been served, make sure it hasn’t exceeded the ideal length of time for air exposure, that is, don’t let it sit on the table for an extended period of time. Transfer it to a clean container from its serving dish, cover it with cling wrap, and place it on a pack of ice inside your fridge.
Caviar Shelf Life
Maximizing the shelf life of caviar depends largely on how well you’re able to meet its storage requirements. The length of time that a serving can last in storage depends on the packaging that the specific caviar is contained in.
For sealed containers:
Our chilled caviar (with the exception of Premium Sturgeon caviar) in tins and jars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 18 months, given the product is chilled at the temperature recommended on the packaging. Please see bottom of the jar or tin for the exact expiration date.
Frozen salmon caviar that has been thawed should be kept in a refrigerator for up to 10 days.
Our Premium Sturgeon caviar does not contain any preservatives, so the caviar, open or unopened, should be consumed within 10 days or purchase.
For opened containers:
Once the caviar container has been opened, its shelf life in a refrigerator depends on the amount of bacteria that is introduced into the product. You should avoid eating directly from the container and letting bits of food, such as bread crumbs, drop into the caviar. Generally, it usually lasts from one to two weeks. You will notice a specific smell when the caviar starts to reach its turning point.
Make sure to read the labels for expiration dates and storage requirements for a better understanding of your caviar’s specific guidelines.
Can You Freeze Chilled Caviar?
Yes, chilled caviar can be frozen, but it will alter the taste and texture of the roe. If you won’t be able to consume your caviar within the time that it’s viable, freezing can be an alternative. For best results make sure to freeze your caviar in an air-tight container and not allow any head-space (fill the container to the very top). Do note however, that frozen caviar needs to be thawed in the fridge several days before you intend to serve it. Avoid a rapid thaw to prevent damaging the roe membranes and causing them to burst.
Does Caviar Go Bad?
Yes, it does. Caviar that’s exposed to open air can lose its freshness and even, after a prolonger period depending on the temperature, become spoiled. Any caviar in a previously opened container that’s left at room temperature should be assumed as expired after a 24-hour period.
Final Thoughts
The preservation of the taste and quality of caviar will depend largely on your storage habits. If you want to make sure you get the best flavor and experience, pay attention to proper handling for this luxury delicacy. Maintain proper practices and be mindful of the specifics of storage to lengthen your caviar’s shelf life and maintain its premium taste.