Tuna salad is a classic go-to meal — quick to make, high in protein, and perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or a light lunch. But since it contains perishable ingredients like mayonnaise, it’s important to know how long tuna salad stays safe in the fridge before it’s time to toss it.
Here’s everything you need to know about storing tuna salad safely and keeping it fresh as long as possible.
🕐 The Short Answer: 3 to 5 Days
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), tuna salad (just like chicken or egg salad) should be stored in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or lower and eaten within 3 to 5 days.
After that, bacteria like Listeria and Salmonella can start to grow, even if the salad still smells or looks okay.
👉 Rule of thumb:
If it’s been more than 5 days — toss it. Better safe than sorry.
🧊 How to Store Tuna Salad Properly
Proper storage can make a big difference in how long your tuna salad lasts. Follow these simple tips to maximize freshness:
- Use an airtight container.
Store tuna salad in a clean, sealed container to prevent air exposure, which speeds up spoilage. - Refrigerate immediately.
Don’t leave tuna salad out for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if it’s above 90°F / 32°C). - Keep it cold.
Store it in the coldest part of your fridge, usually near the back or bottom shelf, not the door. - Use clean utensils.
Always use a clean spoon to serve — double-dipping can introduce bacteria that shorten its shelf life.
🚫 How to Tell If Tuna Salad Has Gone Bad
Even if it’s within the 3–5 day window, you should check for signs of spoilage before eating. Discard your tuna salad if you notice:
- A sour or “fishier” smell than usual
- Discoloration (gray, brown, or greenish tints)
- Slimy texture or watery separation
- Mold anywhere on the surface
If in doubt, throw it out. Food poisoning from spoiled tuna salad isn’t worth the risk.
🧁 Can You Freeze Tuna Salad?
Technically, you can freeze tuna salad — but the results can be hit or miss.
Mayonnaise doesn’t freeze well; it tends to separate and become watery once thawed.
If you plan to freeze it, here are a few tips:
- Use oil-based mayo or Greek yogurt instead of traditional mayo for better texture.
- Store in small, airtight portions for up to 1 month.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before serving.
Keep in mind: the texture won’t be quite the same as fresh, so freezing is best for leftovers you’ll mix into other dishes rather than serve on its own.
🥗 How to Make Tuna Salad Last Longer
If you like prepping ahead, here are a few ways to keep your tuna salad fresher for longer:
- Add mayo only when serving.
Store plain tuna and mix in mayonnaise right before eating. - Keep ingredients separate.
Combine chopped veggies, tuna, and dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess. - Use lemon juice or vinegar.
Their acidity can slightly extend freshness and enhance flavor.
⚠️ What Happens If You Eat Spoiled Tuna Salad?
Eating spoiled tuna salad can lead to foodborne illness with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, cramps, and diarrhea.
In some cases, tuna that’s gone bad may also cause scombroid poisoning, a reaction to histamine buildup in improperly stored fish.
If you experience symptoms after eating old tuna salad, seek medical attention, especially if you feel flushed, dizzy, or develop a rash.
✅ The Bottom Line
Tuna salad is safe to eat for 3 to 5 days in the fridge when stored properly. Always keep it refrigerated, sealed, and away from temperature fluctuations.
If it smells off, looks odd, or you’re unsure how long it’s been sitting there — don’t risk it.
Freshness and safety go hand in hand when it comes to tuna salad — and with proper care, you can enjoy every last bite without worry.
