Turkey bacon has become a popular alternative to traditional pork bacon due to its lower fat content and overall health benefits. As a turkey bacon lover or someone who simply wants to try a leaner protein option, you should known know how to properly store your turkey bacon to maintain its freshness and flavor. By learning optimal storage methods, you can ensure that your turkey bacon stays delectable and safe to consume.
Understanding how to store turkey bacon involves handling unopened packages as well as dealing with leftovers and opened packs. Additionally, being able to identify and prevent spoilage will help you avoid foodborne illnesses.
How Long Does Unopened Turkey Bacon Last in the Fridge?
For raw turkey bacon, you can refrigerate it in its original packaging and consume it within two weeks or up to one week after the sell by date if it still looks and smells good. If you don’t plan on consuming it within that time frame, it’s best to place the turkey bacon in an airtight bag and store it in the freezer where it can last up to a year.
In contrast, cooked turkey bacon has a slightly shorter shelf life. Once cooked, promptly store any leftovers in the refrigerator, where they should remain safe for up to three to five days. If you need to store your cooked turkey bacon for a longer period, you can freeze it as well. Place the cooked turkey bacon in an airtight freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to two months.
Make sure the refrigerator is kept at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) and check that your freezer is set at 0°F (-18°C) or colder.
Storing Turkey Bacon in the Refrigerator
Once you have opened your turkey bacon, make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or cling wrap. This step is crucial in preventing cross-contamination with other products in the fridge. Wrapping the bacon also helps maintain its color and smell as it preserves moisture and minimizes exposure to air.
For optimal freshness, place the wrapped turkey bacon in an airtight container. If you don’t have a dedicated container, you can use a resealable plastic bag. Ensure that most of the air is removed before sealing the bag, as this will help prevent bacteria growth and maintain the bacon’s quality.
While storing your turkey bacon in the refrigerator, regularly check its color and smell to ensure it’s still safe to consume. If you notice any off-putting odors or discoloration, it may be time to discard the bacon.
Can You Freeze Turkey Bacon?
Freezing turkey bacon is a great way to extend its shelf life and have a convenient option for quick meals. Before you start the freezing process, gather the necessary supplies, such as a heavy-duty freezer bag, aluminum foil, and parchment paper.
To freeze turkey bacon, follow these steps:
- Place in freezer bags: Carefully transfer the wrapped bacon into a heavy-duty freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing the bag to minimize the risk of freezer burn. You can use a vacuum sealer for this step if you have access to one, but simply pressing out the excess air will work well in most cases.
- Label and store: Write the date and contents on the freezer bag using a permanent marker, so you can keep track of when you froze the bacon and how long it’s been in the freezer. Place the bag in the freezer, ideally in an area that maintains a consistent temperature, such as the back of the freezer or a designated drawer for frozen meats.
Keep in mind, while frozen raw turkey bacon can last for up to 12 months, its quality may decline over time. Therefore, it’s best to use the frozen bacon within a reasonable timeframe to enjoy its optimal taste and texture.
When you’re ready to use your frozen turkey bacon, make sure to thaw it properly. Move the package from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. For quicker thawing, you can use the defrost function on your microwave. Once thawed, ensure you cook the turkey bacon thoroughly to enjoy a safe and delicious meal.
Identifying and Preventing Spoilage
Always observe the expiration date, sell-by date, or use-by date marked on the package. Adhering to these dates helps you prevent the consumption of spoiled food. In general, try and use the turkey bacon within a few days of the package being opened, and consume it before the listed expiration date.
Spoilage is mainly caused by bacteria, including lactic acid bacteria that are responsible for producing a sour smell. To recognize when turkey bacon has gone bad, keep an eye out for changes in its appearance, smell, and texture.
Fresh turkey bacon typically has a smooth surface, a delicate texture, and a hint of moistness.
Spoiled turkey bacon will have a strong rancid or sour odor, a slimy texture, and visible discoloration. Discard any turkey bacon with these characteristics immediately to avoid the risk of food poisoning.
To prevent bacterial growth, store your turkey bacon at an ideal temperature of between 32°F (0°C) and 40°F (4°C) in the refrigerator, away from raw meat, poultry, and seafood. After opening the package, always promptly refrigerate or freeze it to minimize spoilage, using airtight containers or resealable bags to seal the turkey bacon packages.
For cooked turkey bacon, follow these guidelines: let the bacon cool down, and then wrap it in aluminum foil or store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Label and date the stored bacon, and place it in the refrigerator or freezer. Always reheat the bacon before consuming it.
By following these storage tips and being vigilant about identifying signs of spoilage, you will be well-equipped to enjoy your turkey bacon while maintaining its freshness and flavor.
Important Tips and Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to storing turkey bacon, there are a few key points you should consider to ensure it lasts as long as possible. Here are some important tips and frequently asked questions to help you out.
How long does turkey bacon last? Unopened turkey bacon in a sealed package can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or seven days past the expiration date, whichever comes first. Once the package is opened, ensure you wrap it tightly and store it in the fridge, where it can last up to one week.
What is the ideal temperature for storing turkey bacon? You should store turkey bacon in the refrigerator between 32°F (0°C) and 40°F (4°C). This temperature range slows bacterial growth and maintains the quality of the bacon.
How do I store leftover or cooked turkey bacon? Leftover cooked turkey bacon should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Proper storage will help preserve the texture of the cooked bacon slices and prevent them from becoming too dry.
Summary
In the refrigerator, store unopened turkey bacon in its original packaging until the expiration date. Once opened, you should wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it back in the refrigerator. It is best to consume opened turkey bacon within 7 to 10 days. If storing raw turkey bacon in the freezer, make sure to use an airtight container or sealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible. Properly frozen turkey bacon can last up to 3 months.
For cooked turkey bacon, let it cool down before storing it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Cooked turkey bacon should be consumed within 4 to 5 days. Similarly, if freezing cooked turkey bacon, use an airtight container or sealable plastic bag and consume it within 2 to 3 months.
In order to identify bad turkey bacon, look for changes in color or texture, a slimy surface, or an off-putting smell. If you notice any of these signs, it is best to discard the turkey bacon.
Remember these useful tips and make the most of your delicious turkey bacon while maintaining its taste and freshness for as long as possible.
