Guidelines On How Long Meat Should Be Stored In The Fridge

Storing meat safely is important as it can be host to harmful bacteria. These microbes multiply rapidly under the right conditions and they can grow without even affecting the color, texture, and odor of the food.

The good thing is that you have the fridge to store your meat in properly to prevent the growth of disease-causing bacteria. But how long should you store meat in there for it to be considered safe to eat?

Lunchmeats and hotdogs

They are perfect to serve to your guests when you’re grilling in your backyard and kids enjoy them too. But these meats are good only for two weeks in the fridge when the package is unopened. They must be consumed within 3-5 days after opening, although hot dogs can be good for a couple days longer. They are, however, are good to go for one to two months when stored in the freezer.

Raw poultry

They should stay in the fridge at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or colder for a day or two. But when put in a freezer, they can last up to a year. Once cooked, you can still store it in the fridge for a few days longer or kept frozen for two to six months.

Bacon and Sausage

Keep your bacon in the fridge for about a week. Raw sausage, on the other hand, should be consumed in two days. Both types of meat can last in the freezer for a month.

Ground meats

Ground meats are considered okay for consumption as long as they’re refrigerated for one to two days. They can last three to four months in the freezer. Have you been throwing out ground meats too soon?

Cold cuts

Pre-cooked packaged deli meats contain preservatives and they are generally safe to eat within 5 days after opening. If unopened, they can be refrigerated for up to 15 days. They can be frozen to extend its shelf life. Don’t worry, this won’t affect the meat’s flavor.

Deli meats, when frozen unpacked, are considered safe to eat for up to 6 months. When frozen opened, however, they should be consumed within two to three months.

Pork and red meats

These favorites can stay in the fridge for five days and frozen for four to 12 months. Cooked, leftover meat is considered safe to eat when kept in the fridge for three to four days and freezer for two to six months.

Eggs

They can stay good when stored in the fridge for up to a month. When hard-boiled, they should only stay for a week. Only egg whites or beaten eggs (not whole eggs) should be put in a freezer and they can be considered good for up to a year. Separated eggs should be consumed within 2-4 days of staying in the refrigerator.