🐟
How long does smoked salmon (lox) last?
Updated 2026-05-13 · USDA FoodKeeper & FDA guidelines
Refrigerator
2 weeks
Unopened
After opening
1 week
5-7 days after opening
Freezer
2 months
2 months frozen
The short answer
Smoked Salmon (Lox) lasts as long as you store it correctly — which can mean anywhere from a few days on the counter to a year in the freezer. The numbers above represent best quality per USDA and FDA guidelines, not absolute safety limits.
Why these numbers vary
Cured cold-smoked salmon. Storage life depends on temperature consistency, humidity, packaging, and how fresh it was when you got it. Refrigerators that swing between 38°F and 45°F shave days off these numbers; vacuum-sealing or freezing extends them.
How to tell if smoked salmon (lox) is bad
- Slimy surface
- Grey or brown color
- Sour smell
Storage tips
- Keep tightly wrapped after opening
- Bottom shelf, coldest spot
Ad slot · article-mid
Frequently asked questions
How long does smoked salmon (lox) last in the refrigerator?
Smoked Salmon (Lox) lasts 2 weeks in the refrigerator. Unopened
How long does smoked salmon (lox) last in the after opening?
Smoked Salmon (Lox) lasts 1 week in the after opening. 5-7 days after opening
How long does smoked salmon (lox) last in the freezer?
Smoked Salmon (Lox) lasts 2 months in the freezer. 2 months frozen
How can you tell if smoked salmon (lox) is bad?
Watch for: Slimy surface; Grey or brown color; Sour smell.