Yes. Live clams, mussels and oysters last 1–2 days in the fridge and 2–3 months in the freezer. After that, or sooner if stored badly, they spoil: watch for the signs below.
How to tell if live clams, mussels and oysters 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.
Live clams, mussels and oysters past the expiration date
Best-by and sell-by
FoodKeeper gives unopened live clams, mussels and oysters 1–2 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 live clams, mussels and oysters, the storage clock matters more than the label: if it has been in the fridge longer than 1–2 days, discard it even before the printed date.
How to keep live clams, mussels and oysters 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.
