Do you want to know “How long does turkey bacon last?” and more importantly, “How to keep turkey bacon fresh?” We have the answers! The good news is that these tips will help you keep raw, cooked, and frozen turkey bacon fresh for a lot longer.
Turkey bacon is another way to enjoy a bacon-like eating experience. Some people eat it because it has a lower fat content than traditional pork bacon.
Turkey bacon is lower in fat and calories than regular pork bacon, but it’s still processed meat that goes bad after a certain amount of time.
So, you should know how to store turkey bacon so that it doesn’t grow bacteria and how long it will last. This article will teach you how to eat the crispy strips safely with your food.
Turkey bacon has become a popular lower-fat, lower-calorie alternative to traditional pork bacon. Its savory smoked flavor pairs well with breakfast foods, sandwiches, salads and more. While fresh turkey bacon only lasts around 1 week in the fridge, the freezer can significantly extend its shelf life. But exactly how long can you keep turkey bacon in the freezer before it goes bad?
This comprehensive guide covers proper frozen storage times, signs of freezer burn, thawing and reheating, and answers common questions about maximizing frozen turkey bacon’s shelf life. Read on for full details on safely freezing turkey bacon for maximum freshness and flavor.
Overview of Turkey Bacon Freezer Life
Freezing food slows down the activity of bacteria and enzymes that cause food spoilage. At a steady 0°F or below, turkey bacon can safely remain fresh in the freezer for extended periods of time Here are general guidelines for freezer shelf life
-
Unopened turkey bacon 4 to 12 months past the sell by date
-
Opened turkey bacon: 2 to 6 months past the sell by date
Proper packaging, storage temperature, and avoiding freezer burn are key to achieving maximum freezer life.
Storage Tips to Preserve Quality
To retain optimal texture and flavor when freezing turkey bacon, follow these storage tips:
-
Tightly wrap in several layers of plastic wrap or put in freezer bags, making sure to get rid of any extra air.
-
Divide packages into smaller portions to limit thawing/re-freezing.
-
Store at 0°F or colder for consistent temperature.
-
Avoid overcrowding the freezer, which can raise temperature.
-
Label packages with dates and contents using permanent marker.
-
Inspect periodically for signs of freezer burn.
Proper freezing storage keeps turkey bacon tasting fresh while extending its shelf life.
How To Identify Freezer Burned Turkey Bacon
Since sniffing and tasting aren’t options for frozen foods, you’ll need to rely on other cues to identify freezer burned turkey bacon:
-
Dry, leathery, or hard texture
-
Discoloration – dull, grayish brown
-
Ice crystals or crusty/crystallized fat
-
Rancid odor when thawing
-
Loss of fat – shrinkage, wrinkles, gaps between slices
Discard turkey bacon displaying these qualities rather than risk illness from spoiled meat.
Thawing and Reheating Frozen Turkey Bacon
Here are safe methods to thaw frozen turkey bacon:
-
Refrigerator – Place sealed package on bottom shelf, takes 8-12 hours.
-
Cold water – Seal bag and submerge, change water every 30 mins, about 1 hour total.
-
Microwave – Cook immediately after thawing, beware uneven heating.
Once thawed, turkey bacon can be reheated and enjoyed in the oven, skillet or microwave. Cook just until heated through. Do not refreeze thawed turkey bacon.
How Long In Freezer for Optimal Quality?
For best flavor and texture quality, follow these recommended freezer times:
-
Unopened packages – Consume within 6-9 months for optimal freshness.
-
Opened packages – Use within 3-4 months before quality declines.
-
Cooked turkey bacon – Enjoy within 2-3 months for ideal taste and moisture.
The timers reset after each freeze, so avoid exceeding them.
Common Freezer Bacon Questions Answered
Let’s review some frequently asked questions on maximizing freezer life for turkey bacon:
Is turkey bacon safe to eat after being frozen over a year?
It’s not recommended. Flavor, texture and safety decline after 12 months in the freezer.
Can thawed turkey bacon be refrozen?
Not recommended. Refreezing increases risk of bacteria growth. Only re-freeze if unused within 1-2 days.
What happens if turkey bacon gets freezer burn?
It may not pose safety issues if cooked thoroughly, but the quality in terms of taste and texture will likely diminish.
How can you tell if frozen turkey bacon is still good?
Inspect for freezer burn and off odors when thawing a portion. If unsure, it’s best to discard the package.
Can spoiled, mushy turkey bacon be saved by cooking thoroughly?
No, at the first sign of spoilage like odor, sliminess or stickiness, it is safest to throw it away rather than trying to cook it.
The Bottom Line
With proper frozen storage, unopened turkey bacon can remain fresh in the freezer 4 to 12 months past the printed sell by date, and opened packages up to 6 months. Monitor for signs of freezer burn, rancid odors, or unusual textures. For the best quality and safety, use frozen turkey bacon within the recommended timeframe of 3-6 months. Following these freezing guidelines will help you maximize shelf life and enjoy your turkey bacon worry-free!
Storing Uncooked Turkey Bacon
The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) shares that you can store any type of bacon raw in a refrigerator at 40 degrees F and below for a week, and in a freezer below zero degrees F for up to four months.
But to get the best flavor, we suggest that you tightly wrap and store the turkey bacon after you open the package, and then plan to cook and eat it within two to three days (or freeze it).
What is Turkey Bacon?
As you probably know, turkey bacon isn’t really bacon at all. It’s made from ground turkey that has been mixed with spices and preservatives and then shaped into strips that look like bacon.
Like pre-cooked deli ham, turkey bacon is usually cured using sodium nitrite. Some producers also use light and dark turkey meat to mimic the stripes in traditional bacon.
How long can food stay in your freezer?
FAQ
Can frozen turkey bacon go bad?
Can bacon last 1 year in the freezer?
How do you know if turkey bacon has gone bad?
Is 2 year old frozen bacon still good?
How long does turkey bacon last in the freezer?
Turkey bacon lasts significantly longer when frozen. It stays good for about a week in the fridge, but can last for several months in the freezer. If the turkey bacon was still good when you put it into the freezer, it would stay good for another four to six months.
Can turkey bacon be frozen?
Turkey bacon can be frozen for extended periods. Freeze it in heavy-duty freezer bags or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Properly packaged, turkey bacon can maintain its quality in the freezer for up to 6 months.
How long does raw turkey bacon last?
Raw turkey bacon lasts for up to 2 days in the fridge and up to 2 months in the freezer. After this period, turkey bacon can go bad. Turkey bacon is typically smoked and doesn’t require additional cooking for food safety.
How long does smoked turkey bacon last?
Smoked turkey bacon lasts 1 week in the fridge and up to 2 months in the freezer. After this period, it can go bad. Most turkey bacon is smoked and doesn’t require additional cooking for food safety.