Yes. Fresh clams and mussels last 5–10 days in the fridge. After that, or sooner if stored badly, they spoil: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if fresh clams and mussels are bad
Smell
Strong fishy, sour or ammonia odour. Fresh seafood smells of the sea.
Texture
Mushy flesh that does not spring back, or a milky slime.
Colour
Dull, grey or yellowing flesh; dark edges.
Shells
Live shellfish with open shells that do not close when tapped.
Fresh clams and mussels past the expiration date
Best-by and sell-by
FoodKeeper gives unopened fresh clams and mussels 5–10 days in the fridge, counted from the day you buy it. "Best-by" and "sell-by" describe quality and stock rotation, not safety; only infant formula carries a federally required use-by date.
Past the date
For perishable fresh clams and mussels, the storage clock matters more than the label: if it has been in the fridge longer than 5–10 days, discard it even before the printed date.
How to keep fresh clams and mussels fresh longer
- Keep on ice or in the coldest part of the fridge, at 40°F (4°C) or below.
- Store live shellfish in a bowl covered with a damp cloth, never in water or sealed plastic.
- Cook or freeze within the fridge window.
