How to Store Live Crabs: Master These Methods to Keep Them Longer

How to store live crabs is a problem many people run into after buying crabs. After leaving the water, crabs can still stay alive by breathing through their gills, but in the wrong environment they will quickly weaken and may even die. Dead crabs are prone to bacterial growth and the production of harmful substances, so they are generally not recommended for eating; that is why the storage step after bringing them home is so important.

One common method is refrigeration. First tie the crab's legs together to reduce the physical energy it uses moving around, then place it in the refrigerator's cold-storage compartment with the temperature set low but not freezing, and cover the crab with a damp towel to keep it moist. This method generally keeps them for about two or three days; during that time, keep an eye on their condition, and any crab whose liveliness has clearly declined should be eaten as soon as possible.

Another method is shallow-water keeping. Put the crabs in a basin or bucket and pour in a small amount of clean water, just up to about the edge of the shell; never submerge the crab's body completely, or it may suffocate and die. Change the water once a day, and keep them in a cool, well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight and high temperatures; this way the crabs can usually stay lively for several days as well.

There are also a few points to note when storing them. When selecting crabs, give priority to individuals whose legs are strong and that react quickly when touched, and eat the less lively ones first; do not untie the binding rope on crabs you are not eating yet, since leaving them tied saves energy and also prevents you from getting pinched. Whichever method you use, the storage time should not be dragged out too long; the sooner they are eaten, the better the flavor and the safety.