Bacon, oh bacon – that savory, crispy, and delicious meat that makes our breakfasts (and sometimes even our entire day) taste better. Who doesn’t love the smell of bacon sizzling on a hot pan or griddle? However, as much as we enjoy eating bacon, we also need to be mindful of how long it lasts in our fridge. In this blog post, we will talk about the shelf life of cooked bacon in your fridge and other important things you need to know about storing bacon.
First things first, let’s talk about bacon itself. Bacon is a type of salt-cured pork that is typically made from pork belly or back cuts. It is cured with salt, sugar, and various spices before being smoked, boiled, or fried. Bacon is a staple food in many households and is often used as a topping for burgers, sandwiches, salads, and other dishes. Bacon can be cooked in many different ways, including frying, baking, broiling, or grilling.
Now, let’s talk about the shelf life of cooked bacon in your fridge. According to the USDA, cooked bacon can last up to four to five days in the fridge. However, this is only an estimate and can vary depending on several factors, such as how the bacon was cooked, how it was stored, and how fresh it was before cooking.
If you want to extend the shelf life of cooked bacon, there are a few things you can do. Firstly, make sure you store the bacon properly. Place the cooked bacon in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This will help prevent air from getting to the bacon, which can cause spoilage. Secondly, you can also freeze the cooked bacon instead of storing it in the fridge. If stored correctly, frozen bacon can last up to six months. To freeze cooked bacon, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. Make sure to label the bag with the date of freezing so you can keep track of how long it has been in the freezer.
Another thing to keep in mind when it comes to storing bacon is that raw bacon should always be stored on the bottom shelf of your fridge. This is because raw meat can drip and potentially contaminate other foods if stored at the top. It’s also important to check the expiration or sell-by date of the bacon before buying it. Opt for fresh bacon whenever possible, as this will give you more time to use it before it spoils.
When cooking bacon, it’s important to make sure it is cooked all the way through. Undercooked bacon can be a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause food poisoning. To ensure that your bacon is fully cooked, fry it until it is crispy and golden brown. If you’re not sure whether the bacon is fully cooked, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The USDA recommends that pork bacon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F before being consumed.
In conclusion, bacon is a delicious and versatile food that can be enjoyed in many different ways. However, it’s important to be mindful of its shelf life and how to store it properly. Cooked bacon can last up to four to five days in the fridge, but you can extend its shelf life by storing it in an airtight container or freezing it. Always make sure to check the expiration date of raw bacon before purchasing it and cook it thoroughly to avoid the risk of food poisoning. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy bacon safely and without worry.