Bacon is more than just a breakfast staple-it’s a symbol of comfort, indulgence, and for many households, a must-have in the fridge. Whether you’re tossing it into a sandwich, adding it to pasta, or sneaking a crispy piece straight from the pan, bacon is one of those things we tend to keep around. But how long is too long? Let’s get into the details of how long you can keep bacon in the refrigerator, what changes between raw and cooked bacon, how to store bacon grease or drippings, and-just as important-how to tell when bacon has gone bad.
Understanding Bacon Shelf Life: Raw vs. Cooked
The first thing to note is that bacon’s shelf life depends on its form. Are we talking raw bacon, cooked bacon, or even bacon grease? Each one has its own storage rules and timelines.
Raw Bacon in the Refrigerator
Uncooked bacon that’s been properly sealed (either vacuum-packed or tightly wrapped) can last about 1 week in the refrigerator. This applies to store-bought bacon that hasn’t been opened yet. Once the package is opened, the shelf life shortens slightly to 5 to 7 days, assuming it’s stored in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic or foil.
How long can bacon sit in the fridge before it goes bad?
Not all bacon goes bad immediately after a week, but it’s best to trust that 7-day window. The key factor here is proper storage—bacon left open to air or moisture will spoil faster. If your fridge temperature isn’t steady (it should be 40°F or below), bacon can go bad even faster.
Cooked Bacon: How Long Does It Last in the Fridge?
Once bacon has been cooked, its shelf life changes-but not necessarily for the better. While heat does kill off some bacteria, cooked food becomes more susceptible to other types of spoilage over time.
How long can I keep cooked bacon in the refrigerator?
Cooked bacon is best consumed within 4 to 5 days if it’s stored properly in the refrigerator. Wrap it in foil or keep it in an airtight container to maintain its texture and flavor.
How long is cooked bacon good in the refrigerator?
Technically, it can last up to 7 days, but the quality begins to decline after Day 4 or 5. Bacon may become rubbery or develop a strange smell, even if it still looks okay.
Freezing Bacon: What If I Can’t Use It Right Away?
Many households turn to the freezer when they’re not ready to use bacon immediately. This is a smart move—but even in the freezer, bacon has a clock.
How long can you keep bacon in the freezer after expiration date?
If stored correctly, you can freeze bacon for up to 6 months, even if it’s a bit past the expiration date. But here’s the catch: the further past the date you go, the more the quality (especially texture and flavor) can degrade. Freezer burn is also a risk if it’s not sealed tightly.
If the bacon has been frozen before its expiration and kept consistently at 0°F, it should remain safe beyond the printed date-just don’t expect it to be as tasty or crisp as a fresh pack.
What About Bacon Grease and Drippings?
A lot of home cooks save the rendered fat after frying bacon, and for good reason. Bacon grease adds rich, savory flavor to everything from scrambled eggs to roasted vegetables. But how long is it safe to store?
How long can I store bacon grease in the refrigerator?
Bacon grease can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 months. It should be kept in a clean, airtight container-ideally glass or ceramic-to prevent contamination or absorption of off-flavors.
How long can you keep bacon drippings in the refrigerator?
Whether you call it grease or drippings, the timeline is the same: up to 90 days in the refrigerator. You’ll know it’s gone bad if it develops a sour smell, discoloration, or signs of mold.
Pro tip: Strain out solid bits before storing bacon grease. These food particles spoil faster than the fat itself and can make the whole batch go rancid sooner.
How to Tell If Bacon Has Gone Bad in the Fridge
No one wants to throw out bacon, but eating spoiled meat can lead to serious foodborne illness. It’s crucial to recognize the signs of spoilage.
Visual Signs
- Color change: Fresh raw bacon should have a pinkish-red hue with creamy white fat. If it starts turning gray, brown, or has greenish spots—it’s no good.
- Slimy texture: Bacon shouldn’t feel sticky or slimy. If it does, bacteria have likely started to multiply.
Smell Test
This is the most reliable method. If your bacon smells sour, sulfuric, or simply “off,” don’t risk it. Good bacon smells like smoky meat. Bad bacon smells like regret.
Taste Test? Never.
If you’re unsure whether bacon is still good, don’t taste it to find out. Trust your eyes and nose. Once it shows any signs of spoilage, toss it.
Safe Bacon Storage Tips
- Keep fridge temperature at 40°F or lower.
- Wrap bacon tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to minimize air exposure.
- Label everything-especially leftovers or cooked bacon, so you know when it was stored.
- Don’t refreeze thawed bacon unless it was thawed in the refrigerator and hasn’t been out more than a few hours.
FAQs.
Can I eat bacon that has been in the fridge for 10 days?
If it’s raw and unopened, maybe. If it’s opened or cooked, probably not. Use your senses and stick close to the 7-day rule for safety.
Is it safe to eat expired bacon if it doesn’t smell bad?
No. The expiration date is set for a reason, and bacteria can multiply even if there’s no smell. Always err on the side of caution.
Can I store bacon in the freezer right after purchase?
Yes, and that’s actually a great idea if you won’t use it within a week. Store it in a heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Does freezing extend the safety or just the shelf life?
Freezing halts bacterial growth, so it does make bacon safer for longer. Just ensure it was fresh before freezing, and store it properly.
What’s the best way to reheat refrigerated cooked bacon?
Use an oven or skillet to bring back the crispness. Microwaves work too, but may make it rubbery.
Final Thoughts.
In the world of home cooking, bacon holds a sacred place. It’s delicious, versatile, and a pantry (or fridge) MVP. But with great bacon comes great responsibility-especially when it comes to safe storage.
To recap: Raw bacon lasts 5-7 days in the fridge, cooked bacon is good for 4-5 days, and bacon grease can stick around for up to 3 months. Your fridge should be cold, your containers airtight, and your instincts sharp. No one wants to toss out bacon, but it’s better than ending up with a case of food poisoning. When in doubt, throw it out-and make room for a new pack of that smoky, savory goodness.