Fresh crabs can indeed be frozen in the refrigerator, but there are specific conditions. First of all, live crabs must be sure to be frozen before freezing, while dead crabs are not recommended for freezing because death produces toxic histamines that can lead to food poisoning. Frozen crabs are usually suitable for long-term storage, but preferably not more than three months. Direct freezing of hairy crabs is not recommended as it may spoil their freshness, the meat will become tough and the flavor will be greatly reduced.

For short-term storage, fresh crabs can be refrigerated for four to five days if they cannot be eaten at once. For storage, there is no need to wash or untie the ropes; simply pack the crabs in the refrigerator with a damp towel on their backs to keep them in a dormant-like state. This way, when it's time to cook, you'll still be able to savor the crab's delicious flavor. So, although freezing is a method of preservation, it is recommended to choose the appropriate storage method as needed to maintain optimal flavor and nutritional value.