Caviar is more than just a delicacy—it’s an experience. Those tiny, glistening eggs of sturgeon or salmon hold a delicate balance of flavor, texture, and luxury. But one of the most common questions we hear at WNF Caviar Heritage is, “How long does caviar last?” The answer isn’t always straightforward. Caviar’s shelf life depends on the type, how it’s stored, and whether it’s been opened. Understanding these factors ensures that every spoonful tastes as luxurious as it should.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about caviar shelf life, proper storage techniques, and signs it’s time to enjoy—or discard—your caviar.

Unopened Caviar: Shelf Life and Storage Essentials

Fresh vs. Pasteurized Caviar

Caviar is typically sold as either fresh (non-pasteurized) or pasteurized, and this affects how long it lasts:

• Fresh, non-pasteurized caviar: This is the closest you can get to the sturgeon’s natural eggs. Stored at the right temperature, it can remain fresh for 4–6 weeks. The flavor is delicate, buttery, and slightly briny. Its short shelf life is why premium caviar is best consumed soon after purchase.

• Pasteurized caviar: Gentle heat treatment extends shelf life, often allowing it to last up to 6 months in the fridge. While the flavor may be slightly less delicate than fresh caviar, pasteurized caviar is excellent for longer-term storage without sacrificing quality.

Temperature and Placement

Storage temperature is critical:

• Keep unopened caviar at the coldest part of the fridge, ideally 0–2°C (32–36°F).

• Avoid storing it in the fridge door, where temperatures fluctuate every time it opens.

• If you’re in a particularly warm environment, consider placing the tin on a bed of ice in the fridge to ensure a consistent temperature.

💡 Expert Tip: Always check the “Best Before” date on your caviar tin. Even if stored perfectly, this date is your ultimate guide to freshness.

Opened Caviar: Timing Is Everything

Once you break the seal, caviar becomes far more vulnerable. Exposure to air causes oxidation, which can affect both taste and texture.

Ideal Consumption Window

• 24–48 hours: This is the sweet spot for enjoying your caviar at its best. The eggs will still have their delicate “pop,” creamy texture, and rich flavor.

• 3–5 days: Some pasteurized or high-salt varieties can last slightly longer, but the flavor begins to diminish. The eggs may become softer and less vibrant.

Tips for Extending Freshness

• Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the caviar before resealing the tin. This reduces air exposure.

• Always use clean, non-metallic spoons to avoid contamination and off-flavors.

• Return the tin to the coldest part of the fridge immediately after serving.

💡 Pro Tip: Never leave opened caviar at room temperature for extended periods—even a few hours can impact quality.

Freezing Caviar: Pros, Cons, and Best Practices

Freezing caviar is possible, but it should be done with care:

• Unopened, vacuum-sealed caviar: Can be frozen for up to 12 months. Freezing preserves the caviar but may slightly alter texture. Always thaw it slowly in the fridge rather than at room temperature.

• Opened caviar: Freezing is not recommended. Ice crystals can rupture the eggs, making them mushy and reducing their delicate flavor.

💡 Expert Tip: Only freeze caviar if absolutely necessary, such as for long-term storage, and always handle gently to protect its luxurious texture.

Room Temperature and Serving Guidelines

Caviar is extremely sensitive to temperature. Serving it correctly ensures every bite tastes perfect:

• Room temperature exposure: Never leave caviar out for more than 2 hours. In hot climates, like the UAE, this may be reduced to 1 hour.

• Serving on ice: Place the caviar tin in a bowl of crushed ice. This keeps it chilled without freezing, preserving texture and flavor.

Serving Tips

• Use non-metallic spoons (mother-of-pearl, bone, or wood) to prevent metallic flavors.

• Only serve small portions at a time to minimize exposure.

• Pair with traditional accompaniments like blinis, lightly buttered toast, or a glass of Champagne for a full luxury experience.

Experience Unmatched Quality and Freshness

When it comes to indulgence, not all caviar is created equal. The freshness, texture, and flavor of each tin make all the difference. At WNF Caviar Heritage, we carefully source and handle every batch to ensure that our customers experience the best caviar in Dubai.

Our sturgeon and salmon caviar are harvested, packed, and stored with precision, preserving the delicate pop and creamy richness that true caviar lovers expect. Each tin undergoes meticulous quality control to maintain its luxury and flavor, so every bite is an experience in itself.

Whether you are planning a special celebration, a gourmet dinner, or simply treating yourself, choosing high-quality caviar guarantees an unforgettable tasting experience. With WNF Caviar Heritage, you can enjoy the confidence of knowing that every tin represents freshness, luxury, and the very best caviar Dubai has to offer.

How to Tell If Caviar Has Gone Bad

Even when stored properly, caviar can spoil. Knowing the warning signs ensures you never waste your investment or risk an unpleasant experience.

Appearance

• Fresh eggs should be firm and glistening.

• Avoid caviar that looks dull, cloudy, or discolored.

Smell

• Fresh caviar has a clean, marine-like aroma.

• A strong fishy or ammonia-like smell is a clear indicator it’s past its prime.

Texture

• Eggs should pop lightly in your mouth.

• Mushy, sticky, or collapsed eggs are signs of spoilage.

💡 Pro Tip: Trust your senses—if it looks, smells, or feels off, it’s safer to discard it.

Caviar Shelf Life at a Glance

Final Thoughts

Caviar is a luxury worth handling with care. Proper storage, attention to temperature, and timely consumption are the keys to enjoying its delicate flavor, creamy texture, and exquisite aroma.

At WNF Caviar Heritage, we’ve been sharing the finest sturgeon and salmon caviar across the UAE since 2015. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy every bite at its absolute peak—whether for a special occasion, a gift, or an indulgent treat.

And the best part? You can buy caviar online directly from WNF Caviar Heritage, with premium quality delivered fresh to your doorstep anywhere in the UAE. From sturgeon to salmon caviar, every tin is handled with care to preserve the luxury you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Caviar

1. How long does caviar last after opening?

Once opened, caviar should ideally be consumed within 24–48 hours for the best taste and texture. Some pasteurized or high-salt varieties can last up to 3–5 days, but flavor and texture will gradually decline. Always cover the surface with plastic wrap before resealing the tin and keep it refrigerated.

2. Can I freeze caviar to make it last longer?

Yes, unopened caviar can be frozen for up to 12 months, but freezing may slightly alter the texture. Opened caviar should never be frozen, as ice crystals can rupture the delicate eggs. Always thaw caviar slowly in the fridge for the best results.

3. What is the best way to store caviar at home?

Caviar should always be stored in the coldest part of the fridge, ideally at 0–2°C (32–36°F). Avoid the fridge door, where temperature fluctuates. Keep unopened tins sealed, and once opened, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to minimize air contact.

4. How do I know if caviar has gone bad?

Spoiled caviar can be identified through appearance, smell, and texture:

• Appearance: Eggs become dull, cloudy, or discolored.

• Smell: A strong fishy or ammonia odor indicates spoilage.

• Texture: Eggs become mushy or sticky instead of popping gently in the mouth.

If any of these signs appear, it’s safer to discard the caviar.

5. How long can caviar sit at room temperature?

Caviar is highly sensitive to heat. It should never be left out for more than 2 hours. In warm climates, such as the UAE, this may reduce to just 1 hour. Always serve caviar chilled, ideally on crushed ice, to preserve its flavor and texture.

6. Can I buy caviar online in the UAE?

Absolutely! At WNF Caviar Heritage, you can buy caviar online and have premium salmon and sturgeon caviar delivered fresh to your doorstep anywhere in the UAE. Every tin is handled with care to preserve its luxury, taste, and delicate texture.

7. What makes WNF Caviar Heritage’s caviar different?

Our caviar is carefully sourced, handled, and stored to ensure the best caviar in Dubai. Each tin preserves the creamy texture, delicate pop, and rich flavor that true caviar lovers expect. With WNF Caviar Heritage, you experience freshness, luxury, and quality in every bite.