Pre-cooked bacon is incredibly convenient. You can eat tasty, crispy bacon right out of the package with very little work. But if you don’t eat the whole package at once, it’s important to know how long pre-cooked bacon lasts after being opened.
After all, you want to savor every strip while it’s still fresh!
So how long does pre-cooked bacon stay good for once you open the package? Here’s what you need to know to maximize the shelf life of pre-cooked bacon after opening
Overview
In general, pre-cooked bacon will last 5-7 days in the fridge after opening. However, the precise shelf life depends on a few factors:
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Storage temperature – Store pre-cooked bacon at 40°F or below Higher temps accelerate spoilage.
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Package date – Check the use-by date Consume within this timeframe after opening
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Packaging – Well-sealed packages preserve freshness better.
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Exposure to air – Limit exposure to oxygen by sealing the package tightly after opening.
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Fat content – Higher-fat bacon lasts longer. Lean bacon spoils faster.
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Additives – Bacon cured with nitrites/nitrates maintains quality longer.
Follow proper storage and handling, and pre-cooked bacon can safely last 5-7 days refrigerated after opening. But what if it’s been longer? Here are some signs your bacon may be past its prime.
How to Tell if Pre-Cooked Bacon is Bad After Opening
Rely on your senses to determine if pre-cooked bacon has spoiled after sitting in the fridge for a while. Here’s what to look for:
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Sliminess – Fresh bacon feels slightly moist. Spoiled bacon feels excessively slimy.
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Discoloration – Bad bacon may turn grey, green or blue. Normal bacon is pink/red.
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Dull or sticky texture – Fresh bacon is smooth. Old bacon may feel gritty or tacky.
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Rancid smell – Rotten bacon gives off a sour, unpleasant odor.
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Mold – Fuzzy spots or webbing signals bacon has spoiled.
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Expired date – If well beyond the use-by date, don’t risk eating it.
When bacon exhibits these signs, it’s no longer safe to eat. Remember, our senses evolved to detect spoiled foods and avoid foodborne illness. So if your bacon seems “off”, err on the side of caution and throw it away.
Tips for Properly Storing Leftover Pre-Cooked Bacon
To get the most out of pre-cooked bacon once opened, follow these storage tips:
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Seal tightly – Roll up the package tightly and seal with clips or rubber bands. This minimizes air exposure.
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Use smaller containers – Divide into smaller portions in plastic bags or airtight containers. Less air = longer lasting.
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Keep cold – Refrigerate promptly at 40°F or below. Never leave pre-cooked bacon at room temperature.
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Watch use-by date – Even refrigerated, don’t eat bacon past the recommended use-by or sell-by date.
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Freeze extras – For longer storage, freeze leftover bacon. It’ll keep for 1-2 months frozen.
Following a “first-in, first-out” system also helps. Eat older bacon before newer packages. With proper storage, you can safely enjoy pre-cooked bacon for 5-7 days after opening.
Frequently Asked Questions
You probably have some other questions about the shelf life of pre-cooked bacon after opening. Here are answers to some common FAQs:
How long does Hormel pre-cooked bacon last after opening?
According to Hormel, their BLACK LABEL pre-cooked bacon will stay fresh for 5 days refrigerated after opening. Be sure to seal the package tightly.
Does pre-cooked bacon from Costco last after opening?
Costco’s Kirkland brand pre-cooked bacon should keep 5-7 days refrigerated after opening. Follow the use-by date and store properly sealed.
Can you freeze pre-cooked bacon after opening the package?
Yes, you can safely freeze opened pre-cooked bacon. Just wrap tightly in plastic wrap or freezer bags, removing excess air. It will keep for 1-2 months frozen before quality declines.
Is it safe to eat pre-cooked bacon past the use-by date?
It’s generally unsafe to eat any opened pre-cooked bacon past the recommended use-by or sell-by date. These dates account for storage after opening. So don’t risk eating expired bacon.
How can you tell if opened pre-cooked bacon has gone bad?
Refer to the signs above like sliminess, funny colors, rancid odors, mold, etc. Your senses can reliably detect spoiled, rotten bacon. When in doubt, throw it out.
Can you microwave leftover pre-cooked bacon to reheat?
Yes, you can reheat opened pre-cooked bacon in the microwave. Place a paper towel on a plate, lay bacon strips out flat, and microwave 30 seconds to 1 minute until hot.
The Takeaway on Pre-Cooked Bacon Storage
Pre-cooked bacon offers convenience, but has a shorter shelf life once opened. Follow these guidelines to maximize freshness:
- Refrigerate unused bacon promptly at 40°F or below
- Seal the package tightly after opening
- Observe the use-by date and don’t eat expired bacon
- Look for signs of spoilage like sliminess and off-odors
- Freeze extras to prolong storage life
With proper refrigeration and handling, an opened package of pre-cooked bacon should last 5-7 days past the opening date. Now you can feel good about enjoying pre-cooked bacon without the waste!
