Bacon is a beloved breakfast staple that many people enjoy. However, it's important to know how long smoked bacon can last in the fridge to ensure its safety and quality. In this article, we will explore the shelf life of smoked bacon, how to properly store it, and how to tell if it has gone bad.
How Long Can You Eat Smoked Bacon 2 Weeks Out of Date?
If you have smoked bacon that is two weeks past its expiration date, it's best to err on the side of caution and discard it. While some people may have consumed smoked bacon that is slightly past its expiration date without any issues, it's important to note that the taste and quality may be compromised. To maintain the freshness and taste of smoked bacon, it's recommended to freeze it once opened.
Factors Affecting Bacon's Shelf Life
Several factors can determine the shelf life of bacon, including its type, method of storage, and whether it has been opened or cooked. It's important to note that the sell-by date on the package does not always indicate how long bacon can be safely consumed. It may simply indicate the date until which bacon can be kept on the shelves for sale.
Common Timelines of Bacon
- Unopened bacon: Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two weeks and frozen for eight months
- Opened but uncooked bacon: May only last about a week in the refrigerator and up to six months in the freezer
- Cooked bacon with proper storage: Has a shorter shelf life, lasting approximately four to five days in the refrigerator and up to one month in the freezer
- Bacon grease: Can be refrigerated for six months or frozen for nine months
How Can You Tell If Bacon Has Gone Bad?
To determine if bacon has gone bad, there are a few signs to look out for. Rancid bacon will have a change in appearance, taking on a brown, gray, or greenish hue. The color of the bacon will appear faded. Additionally, rancid bacon will have an unpleasant odor and may become sticky or slimy. If you notice any of these signs, it's best to discard the bacon.
How to Properly Store Bacon
The key to extending the shelf life of bacon is proper storage. Here are some tips on how to store bacon:
Storing Bacon in the Fridge
If you have unopened bacon, you can store it in its original packaging or transfer it to an airtight container. If the package has been opened, wrap the bacon in aluminum foil or place it in a zip-top bag. Raw, opened bacon can last up to a week in the fridge when stored properly. Cooked bacon should also be stored in an airtight container immediately after use and can last for four to five days.
Storing Bacon in the Freezer
If you want to extend the shelf life of bacon, you can store it in the freezer. To freeze unopened bacon, wrap the package tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Squeeze out any air to prevent the bacon from going rancid. For opened, raw bacon, immediately transfer the desired amount to a zip-top bag, removing any excess air before sealing it. Cooked bacon can be stacked between layers of paper towels and placed in a large zip-top bag. Again, remove any excess air before sealing the bag. Frozen uncooked bacon can last up to eight months, while cooked bacon can last up to one month in the freezer.
How Long Does Bacon Grease Last?
If you have leftover bacon grease, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to six months. Alternatively, you can freeze bacon grease for up to nine months. It's important to note that if the bacon grease develops a rancid odor or shows any signs of mold, it should be discarded.
Smoked bacon can last for varying periods of time depending on factors such as storage and whether it has been opened or cooked. It's important to pay attention to the sell-by date, but also use your senses to determine if the bacon has gone bad. By properly storing bacon in the fridge or freezer, you can extend its shelf life and enjoy it safely. Remember to discard any bacon that shows signs of spoilage, as consuming spoiled bacon can lead to foodborne illnesses.
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