How Long Do Raw Prawns Last in the Fridge?
Written by Jordan Morley · Storage times from the USDA FoodKeeper database · Last updated 28 October 2026
Raw Prawns keep for 1–3 days in a fridge running at 0–5°C.
Storage tips for raw prawns
- Fridge at 0–5°C. A fridge thermometer is the cheapest food-safety upgrade — many home fridges run warmer than their dial suggests.
You can also check the calorie content of raw prawns alongside their safety information. Want to know exactly what's in your food? Our ingredient checker covers E-numbers, allergens and vegan status.
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Store it properly
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More storage essentials
Vacuum food sealer
Removes the air that speeds spoilage — extends shelf life by days.
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Check Price →Raw Prawns next to similar foods
| Food | Fridge time |
|---|---|
| All Cooked Shellfish | Up to 2 days |
| Cooked Fish | Up to 2 days |
| Cooked Prawns | Up to 2 days |
| Cooked Salmon | Up to 2 days |
| Raw Prawns | 1–3 days |
Of the 25 fish and seafood foods with a fridge time in this guide, raw Prawns keep for longer than 5, the same time as 7 and less time than 12.
Raw Prawns: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| In the freezer | Yes — freezes well (best quality for 6–18 months) |
Common questions
How long do raw prawns last in the fridge?
1–3 days in a fridge running at 0–5°C (USDA FoodKeeper guidance). After that, quality and safety both start to slip, and because the bacteria that cause food poisoning are invisible, ‘it seems fine’ is not a reliable test. When in doubt, throw it out.
How can I tell if raw prawns have gone off?
A strong fishy or ammonia smell, a slimy surface, dull flesh or milky liquid in the pack are all reasons to bin it. Do not rely on this alone: the time guideline matters even when everything looks fine.
Can I freeze raw prawns to keep them longer?
Yes. For best quality, freeze them for around 6–18 months; they stay safe beyond that because freezing halts bacterial growth, and only texture and flavour decline.
Does my fridge temperature really matter?
Yes. These times assume a fridge at 0–5°C, which is what the Food Standards Agency says to set it to. Bacteria grow faster in a warmer fridge, and many fridges run warmer than their dial suggests, so a cheap fridge thermometer is worth having.
Related answers
Primary source: USDA FoodKeeper.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.