Does Bacon Go Bad – 4 Ways to Check and Keep it Fresh

You've probably found yourself in this all-too-familiar scenario: you're preparing for a hearty breakfast, you reach for that package of bacon in the back of your fridge, and then...doubt creeps in. Does bacon go bad? If you're like me, you've often wondered about the shelf life of this beloved breakfast staple. From unopened bacon to the leftovers from your Sunday brunch, it can be tricky to determine how long your bacon will last in the fridge.

Don't fret! I've done the homework for you. Brace yourself as we delve into the grim realities of bad bacon—its slimy texture, off-putting coloring, and telltale bad smell— but don't worry, we've got the solutions too.

In this guide, you'll learn how to store bacon properly, whether in the fridge or the freezer, to prolong its shelf life.

We'll also uncover the telltale signs of bad bacon, helping you avoid the unsavory consequences of food poisoning.

Does Bacon Go Bad?

Now, before we dive into the nitty-gritty details of bacon storage and spoilage, let's get a basic understanding of how long bacon actually lasts. According to my research, an unopened package of bacon can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator. That's right, two whole weeks of bacon goodness just waiting for you to savor it.

But what about other types of bacon, like turkey bacon or pancetta? Well, fear not! They should last just as long in the same conditions as their porky counterpart. So, whether you're a traditional bacon lover or prefer to switch things up with a different variety, you can rest assured that your bacon will stay fresh for a good amount of time.

How to Store Bacon Properly

Now that we know how long bacon can last, let's talk about the best ways to store it. Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and quality of your bacon.

Trust me, you don't want to be greeted by a sad, spoiled strip of bacon when you're craving a hearty breakfast.

First things first, always make sure to use airtight containers for storing your bacon. The original packaging, plastic or glass containers, aluminum foil, or zip-top bags are all great options.

These containers will help keep your bacon protected from air and moisture, which can lead to spoilage.

Nobody wants that!

When storing bacon in the fridge, it's best to keep it in the coldest part, usually the back of the refrigerator. This will help maintain a consistent temperature and prolong its freshness.

And remember, once you open a package of bacon, its shelf life shortens.

Raw bacon in an opened and re-sealed package will last up to a week in the fridge. So, if you're not planning to use it all at once, make sure to seal it tightly before putting it back in the refrigerator.

Identifying Spoiled Bacon

Now, let's talk about the signs of spoiled bacon. We've all been there – you open the fridge, grab your bacon, and suddenly you're hit with a funky smell or a slimy texture. Yikes! But fear not, my friends. I'm here to help you distinguish the good from the bad.

One of the first things to look out for is a change in color. Good bacon should be pink and red, beautifully marbled with white fat. If you notice a brown, gray, or even greenish hue, it's a clear sign that your bacon has seen better days. Trust your eyes and don't take any chances.

The smell of spoiled bacon is another telltale sign. Good bacon should not have much of a scent, but bad bacon may have a sour sulfur smell.

Believe me, you'll know it when you smell it. If your bacon doesn't pass the sniff test, it's time to say goodbye and toss it out.

And of course, we can't forget about taste. What does bad bacon taste like, you may wonder?

Well, it's not a taste you'll easily forget. Spoiled bacon can have a rancid, off flavor that's far from the savory delight we all know and love.

So, if your bacon tastes anything less than delicious, it's time to bid it farewell.

Should You Freeze Bacon?

The answer is a resounding yes! Freezing bacon can be a great way to prolong its shelf life and ensure that you always have some on hand for those bacon emergencies. Yes, those emergencies do exist!

When freezing bacon, it's essential to follow a few simple steps. First, cut the bacon into small, manageable portions. This will make it easier to thaw and use as needed.

Then, place the bacon in freezer bags or airtight containers, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Properly stored, uncooked, unopened bacon can be stored in the freezer for up to eight months.

Leftover raw bacon, if stored correctly, can last up to six months in the freezer. Cooked bacon, on the other hand, can last up to one month in the freezer.

Final Tips to Make Bacon Last Longer

Below are a few summarized tips and tricks for prolonging its freshness. After all, we want our bacon to be as delicious as possible, for as long as possible.

One of the most important things to remember is to check the expiration date on packaged bacon. While bacon can often last beyond its expiration date, it's still a good idea to use it as a guideline for freshness. Trust me, you don't want to risk eating bacon that's past its prime.

• Store your bacon in airtight containers, as we discussed earlier. This will help prevent any unwanted exposure to air and moisture.
• Always thaw bacon properly before using it. Thawing in the refrigerator overnight is the best method, as it allows for a slow and even thaw.