Fresh clams keep for a few days in the refrigerator. The food is best if eaten within 24 hours. Fresh clams with shells that do not close when tapped should be discarded.
To test the freshness of live soft-shell clams, touch the siphon neck. If the neck moves, the clam is alive. If the neck does not move, the clam should be discarded. The freshness of clams can also be tested by placing the clams in a pot of water. The clams that float should be thrown away. To freeze clams, remove them from their shells and save the liquid. Wash the clams with salt water. Cover the clams with clam liquid and salt water. Frozen clams keep for up to 3 months.
