If salmon is smoked can it be left out of the refrigerator?

Smoked fish, including salmon, should not be left out of the refrigerator. All smoked seafood, including fish and shellfish, should be chilled at all times.

Smoked fish is an excellent source of protein and a great way to add flavour and variety to your diet. However, you must follow certain safety guidelines when storing it to avoid foodborne illness.

* Smoked fish should be stored in a sealed container or wrapping to prevent flavour and moisture loss and must be stored at 40 °F (4 °C) or below.

* Vacuum-packed smoked fish should be refrigerated at all times and opened only just before eating. Once the vacuum-pack has been opened, it is important to follow the 'use-by' date on the packaging.

* Smoked fish such as hot smoked mackerel and hot smoked salmon that has not been opened can be kept in the refrigerator for five days past its 'use-by' date.

* Smoked fish such as cold smoked mackerel, cold smoked trout and cold smoked salmon that has not been opened can be kept in the refrigerator for three to five days.

* Refrigerated pre-packed sliced smoked fish will usually keep for approximately two to three days from the day after opening.

* Smoked fish products can also be frozen as this will extend its shelf life. When freezing smoked fish, store the unopened original store packaging and store in a domestic freezer at -18 °C (0 °F) or below. Frozen smoked fish can be eaten any time within one to two months when stored in this way.

Please note that the safe storage of all foods, including smoked fish products, is essential in order to protect the health of yourself and others.