Storing raw chicken properly in the refrigerator is crucial to prevent foodborne illnesses. Chicken is very perishable and must be handled carefully With some simple guidelines, you can ensure your raw chicken stays fresh and safe to eat
Why Proper Storage is Important
Raw chicken contains harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter These bacteria multiply rapidly at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F, which is known as the “danger zone” To prevent bacteria growth, raw chicken needs to be stored at a temperature below 40°F.
Improperly stored chicken can lead to food poisoning, with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. In severe cases, food poisoning from chicken can even be fatal, especially for elderly, infants, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. Storing chicken safely is the best way to avoid these risks.
Refrigerator Temperature
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Set your refrigerator temperature to 40°F or below, Use a refrigerator thermometer to monitor the temperature,
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The coldest areas in a refrigerator are at the back and bottom. Store raw chicken on the bottom shelf at the back.
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Don’t overload the refrigerator, as this reduces airflow and cooling efficiency.
Proper Packaging
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Keep raw chicken in its original packaging until you are ready to use it. The packaging prevents cross-contamination.
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If repackaging, make sure chicken is wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in a sealed container. This prevents meat juices from dripping onto other foods.
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Use separate bags and containers for raw chicken and other foods to prevent cross-contamination. Never place raw chicken above other foods in the fridge.
Storage Times
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Store fresh raw chicken for only 1-2 days in the fridge. Freeze any chicken you won’t use within this timeframe.
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Cooked chicken leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days. Discard any older leftovers.
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For best quality, freeze raw chicken for no more than 9-12 months. Cooked chicken lasts 4-6 months in the freezer.
Handling Tips
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Wash hands thoroughly with soap before and after handling raw chicken. Clean countertops, utensils, and any surfaces the chicken touched.
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Never rinse raw chicken, as this can splash bacteria around your kitchen. Cook chicken thoroughly to 165°F internal temperature to kill any bacteria present.
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Marinate chicken in the refrigerator, not on the countertop. Discard used marinade instead of reusing.
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Defrost frozen chicken slowly in the fridge overnight. Do not thaw at room temperature or in hot water. Cook defrosted chicken within 1-2 days.
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Do not refreeze raw chicken once it has been thawed. This allows bacteria to grow.
By following these guidelines for proper temperature, storage times, packaging, and handling, you can keep your raw chicken safe from harmful bacteria growth. Always monitor fridge temperature, use sealed containers, and cook chicken thoroughly. With some basic food safety care, you and your family can enjoy fresh, delicious chicken without worry.
Rule #1 – Take extra care when preparing and wrapping poultry.
Your hands should be as clean as possible both before and after handling poultry. Always usewarm water and soap when you wash, and lather and scrub for 20 to 30 seconds each time. Keep utensils and prepping areas clean as well. After prep all utensils, containers, bowls, and cutting boards must be washed, rinsed, and sanitized or run through the dish machine. Any non-removable pieces including work surfaces must also be washed and sanitized with a proper sanitizing solution.
Remember: Never wash chicken — this promotes the spread of chicken juices and promotes cross-contamination.
Cross-contamination (when bacteria spreads from one surface to another) is a problem that can easily occur in any kitchen, and you’ll want to be particularly aware of it when it comes to raw poultry. Never set raw chicken on a surface and then use the same surface to prepare other foods, like vegetables or seafood.
When wrapping chicken, turkey, and other poultry for storage, use moisture-proof wrap or bags. Wrap tightly so that no juices can escape. It is best to put wrapped poultry on a shallow tray or pan just in case drips occur.
How to Store Raw Poultry in Your Kitchen
Poultry includes meats such as chicken, turkey, goose, and duck. These foods pose a risk when they are raw and when they are served under cooked. Follow these guidelines when handling and storing poultry of any kind.
Properly Storing Raw Chicken in the Fridge
FAQ
How do I store raw chicken in the fridge?
Store raw chicken in a refrigerator set to 40 degrees F or below. Be sure to refrigerate chicken within 2 hours of purchase to prevent bacterial growth. Amidor advises storing raw chicken in a plastic bag or container in the lower part of the refrigerator so it doesn’t risk dripping onto other items.Jun 22, 2023
Is raw chicken ok in the fridge for 5 days?
Can you put raw chicken in a Ziploc bag?
Remove the chicken from the packaging. Place the raw chicken in zip-top plastic freezer bags. Press out as much air as possible before sealing the bag.
Can you store raw chicken in a plastic container?
Yes, you can store raw chicken in plastic containers, but it’s crucial to do it safely to prevent contamination.