Introduction
Storing raw chicken correctly is essential for food safety. Knowing how long you can keep raw chicken in the fridge is an important part of making sure your food is safe to eat. This article will explore how long raw chicken can be kept in the refrigerator and provide tips for storing it safely. We’ll cover factors that affect storage time, recommended maximum times, best practices, common mistakes to avoid, signs of spoilage, and strategies for preserving freshness.
How Long Does Raw Chicken Last in the Fridge?
Raw chicken can last in the refrigerator for 1–2 days, although it’s best to use it within 24 hours. Factors like temperature, humidity, and type of packaging can affect how long raw chicken lasts in the fridge. Generally speaking, vacuum-sealed or shrink-wrapped raw chicken will last longer than chicken stored in a plastic bag or container.
The USDA recommends using raw chicken within 1–2 days of purchase. If you plan to freeze it, do so before the “use by” date on the package. Freezing raw chicken can extend its shelf life for up to 9 months, but it should still be used as soon as possible after thawing.
What Is the Safe Time Limit for Storing Raw Chicken in the Refrigerator?
The USDA recommends that raw chicken should not be stored in the refrigerator for more than 1–2 days. This is because bacteria can grow quickly on chicken if it is kept at room temperature for too long. For optimal safety, it’s best to use raw chicken within 24 hours of purchase.
According to the USDA, “When it comes to safety, there are no shortcuts. It’s critical to follow the guidelines for purchasing, preparing, and storing poultry to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.”
The Do’s and Don’ts of Refrigerating Raw Chicken
When storing raw chicken in the refrigerator, there are some best practices to keep in mind. First, make sure that the raw chicken is placed in a sealed container or bag. This will help prevent cross-contamination with other foods in the fridge. Additionally, it’s important to store the raw chicken at the bottom of the refrigerator, away from ready-to-eat foods. This will help prevent any juices from dripping onto other foods.
It’s also important to make sure that the refrigerator is set at 40°F or below. This will help ensure that the raw chicken stays fresh and safe to eat. Finally, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw chicken and clean any surfaces that have come into contact with the raw chicken.
On the other hand, there are some common mistakes to avoid when refrigerating raw chicken. Never leave raw chicken out of the refrigerator for more than two hours. Additionally, never defrost raw chicken at room temperature. Instead, it’s best to thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight.
Storing Raw Chicken: How Long Is Too Long?
If raw chicken has been stored in the refrigerator for more than 1–2 days, it’s best to throw it away. There are several signs that raw chicken has gone bad and is no longer safe to eat. These include a sour smell, slimy texture, or discoloration. Additionally, if the chicken has been left at room temperature for more than two hours, it should be thrown away.
If you’re unsure whether the raw chicken is still good, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it. According to the USDA, “When in doubt, throw it out. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.”
How to Keep Raw Chicken Fresh in the Fridge
Proper packaging is key to keeping raw chicken fresh in the refrigerator. The best way to store raw chicken is to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, foil, or an airtight container. This will help keep it from drying out and will help prevent cross-contamination with other foods in the fridge.
Additionally, it’s important to place the raw chicken at the bottom of the refrigerator. This will help prevent any juices from dripping onto other foods and will help keep the chicken from spoiling too quickly.
How to Maximize the Shelf Life of Raw Chicken
There are several strategies you can use to maximize the shelf life of raw chicken. First, make sure the refrigerator is set at 40°F or below. This will help keep the chicken fresh and safe to eat. Additionally, it’s important to keep the refrigerator door closed as much as possible. This will help maintain the cold temperatures inside the fridge.
It’s also important to check the temperature of the refrigerator regularly. You can use a kitchen thermometer to make sure that the temperature is consistently at 40°F or below. This will help ensure that your food stays fresh and safe to eat.
Tips for Storing Raw Chicken Safely in the Refrigerator
When storing raw chicken in the refrigerator, it’s important to practice good hygiene. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw chicken and clean any surfaces that have come into contact with the raw chicken. Additionally, it’s important to keep the refrigerator clean and free from spills and crumbs. This will help reduce the risk of contamination.
It’s also important to label and date all packages of raw chicken. This will help you keep track of when the chicken was purchased and when it should be used by. Finally, make sure to store raw chicken away from ready-to-eat foods in the refrigerator. This will help prevent any juices from dripping onto other foods and will help reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
Conclusion
Storing raw chicken correctly is essential for food safety. Knowing how long you can keep raw chicken in the fridge is an important part of making sure your food is safe to eat. In general, raw chicken can last in the refrigerator for 1–2 days, although it’s best to use it within 24 hours. Factors like temperature, humidity, and type of packaging can affect how long raw chicken lasts in the fridge.
When storing raw chicken in the refrigerator, it’s important to practice good hygiene and follow best practices. Additionally, it’s important to check the temperature of the refrigerator regularly and label and date all packages of raw chicken. Keeping these tips in mind will help ensure that your food stays fresh and safe to eat.
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