Can Chinese mitten crabs be eaten after being frozen in the refrigerator for a month?

Generally speaking, whether Chinese mitten crabs (Dàzháxiè) can be consumed after being frozen in the refrigerator for one month depends on their condition before freezing, the freezing method, and storage conditions. If there is an unusual odor or signs of spoilage, it is recommended to discard them. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If the crabs were fresh and undamaged before freezing, with intact limbs and no unpleasant smell, and were promptly sealed in airtight bags or containers and stored in a freezer at a stable temperature below -18°C, they are generally safe to eat after one month. In such cases, nutrient loss is minimal, bacterial growth is unlikely, and the original quality can be well preserved.

However, if the crabs were no longer alive before freezing, or showed signs of stickiness, foul odor, missing limbs, or were frozen without sealing, especially when the freezer temperature fluctuated significantly, they should not be consumed after one month. Non-living crabs may already carry bacteria; lack of sealing leads to moisture loss and cross-contamination of odors, while unstable temperatures accelerate spoilage, potentially posing health risks if consumed.

Before consumption, thoroughly thaw the crabs and avoid repeated freezing and thawing. After thawing, inspect their condition—discard immediately if any abnormalities such as unpleasant odor, stickiness, or soft, mushy flesh are observed. Cook the crabs thoroughly to ensure all potential bacteria are killed. Note that quality deteriorates the longer they are frozen, so it's best to consume them as soon as possible.