How long does herring last?
Short answer: Herring (glass packed, in wine sauce) keeps 4–6 months in the fridge and doesn't freeze well.
Storage chart
| Type | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| glass packed, in wine sauce | 4–6 months | Not recommended |
Fridge at 40°F (4°C) or colder, freezer at 0°F (−18°C). Freezer times are for best quality; food kept frozen stays safe indefinitely.
Keep it longer
Keep seafood in the coldest part of the fridge and use it quickly. Thaw frozen seafood in the fridge, not on the counter.
Common questions
How long does herring last in the fridge?
4–6 months in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below, according to USDA FoodKeeper data.
Can you freeze herring?
Freezing isn't recommended for herring; the texture and quality suffer.
How can I tell if herring has gone bad?
Throw it out if you see mold, a slimy texture, an off smell or an odd color. For anything perishable, go by the storage time rather than smell: bacteria that cause food poisoning don't usually change how food looks or smells.
More seafood
Source: USDA FoodKeeper data (USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service). Updated 2026-10-13. General information, not medical advice. When in doubt, throw it out.