When I go to the store to buy bacon, I think, “Uncured bacon has to be healthier than cured bacon, right?!?” This is when I realize I’m scaring other people away. My doctor told me to cut back on bacon because it was “health and safety concerns,” but they don’t get it. I’m desperately looking for any reason to eat more bacon. ” But he’s a quack, give me bacon!.
Uncured bacon has become a popular alternative to traditional cured bacon thanks to its natural ingredients and smokey porky flavor. But with any perishable food knowing how to store it properly is key to getting the longest shelf life and avoiding spoilage.
In this complete guide I’ll cover everything you need to know about maximizing the fridge life of uncured bacon including
- An overview of uncured bacon
- Exact fridge shelf life for unopened and opened packages
- Proper storage methods
- How to tell if your uncured bacon has gone bad
- The best way to freeze uncured bacon
Let’s get cooking!
What is Uncured Bacon?
Uncured bacon is pork belly that has been preserved naturally without the use of sodium nitrite or other chemical preservatives It relies on ingredients like celery powder, carrot powder, vinegar, and sea salt to cure the meat.
The term “uncured” refers to the lack of added nitrates and nitrites during processing. However, uncured bacon still contains some nitrates occurring naturally in the vegetable powders used.
Uncured bacon provides a close-to-natural pork flavor, though the taste is slightly different from traditionally cured bacon. The texture is also a bit leaner and meatier.
Popular brands of uncured bacon include Niman Ranch, Applegate Farms, Oscar Mayer Natural, and Whole Foods’ 365 Everyday Value. They are sold pre-packaged in grocery stores, often costing a bit more than standard cured bacon.
How Long Does Uncured Bacon Last in the Fridge?
The shelf life of uncured bacon depends on whether it is unopened versus opened, and also if it’s raw or cooked. Here are the fridge life estimates:
Unopened Uncured Bacon
- Raw bacon: 1 week past the sell-by date on the package
- Cooked bacon: 5-7 days past the sell-by date
Opened Uncured Bacon
- Raw bacon: 5-7 days
- Cooked bacon: 3-5 days
As you can see, unopened packages last a bit longer thanks to the intact vacuum seal preventing oxygen exposure. But once opened, oxygen can interact with the bacon, accelerating spoilage.
For maximum freshness and food safety, use uncured bacon before these recommended time periods. And be sure to store it properly in the fridge (more on that next).
How to Store Uncured Bacon in the Fridge
Proper storage is key to getting the most fridge life out of your uncured bacon. Here are some tips:
- Keep unopened packages in the original store packaging until ready to use. Don’t open until needed.
- Once opened, rewrap tightly in plastic wrap, wax paper, or aluminum foil. Eliminate as much air as possible.
- Store uncured bacon on a plate or in a container to catch any drips.
- Place uncured bacon on a lower shelf in the back of the fridge, which tends to be the coldest area.
- Cooked uncured bacon can be stored for 3-5 days in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Avoid freezing and thawing uncured bacon more than 1-2 times, as this shortens shelf life.
Following these steps prevents premature spoilage and maximizes the shelf life of your uncured bacon.
How to Tell if Uncured Bacon Has Gone Bad
Despite proper storage, uncured bacon can still go bad eventually. Check for these signs of spoiled uncured bacon:
- Slimy or sticky texture
- Grayish, dull or brownish color
- Off odors like sour, ammonia, or rotten
- Mold growth
- Rancid taste
If you notice any of these indications, play it safe and toss the uncured bacon. Consuming spoiled bacon can potentially cause foodborne illness.
Can You Freeze Uncured Bacon?
Freezing is a great way to significantly extend the shelf life of uncured bacon. Properly frozen, uncured bacon keeps well for 4-6 months in the freezer.
To freeze uncured bacon:
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Wrap unopened packages well in aluminum foil or freezer paper. This prevents freezer burn.
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Opened packages can be tightly wrapped in layers of plastic wrap and foil or placed in freezer bags. Squeeze out excess air.
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Portion cooked bacon in freezer bags or airtight containers. Remove as much air as possible.
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Label bags/containers with contents and freeze-by date.
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Freeze uncured bacon at 0°F or below. Avoid repeated thaws and refreezes.
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Thaw frozen uncured bacon overnight in the fridge before using.
Following proper freezing procedures lets you keep a stash of uncured bacon on hand for months.
FAQs About Uncured Bacon Storage
Get answers to some common questions about storing uncured bacon:
How long can you keep uncured bacon in the fridge unopened?
Unopened packages of uncured bacon last about 1 week past the sell-by date if kept in the fridge.
Can you freeze uncured bacon in the original packaging?
Yes, you can freeze unopened packages of uncured bacon as is. Just wrap well in foil to prevent freezer burn.
Is it safe to eat uncured bacon after 7 days?
It’s best to use refrigerated uncured bacon within 5-7 days of opening. After 7 days, inspect carefully and discard if any signs of spoilage.
How can you tell if uncured bacon has gone rancid?
Signs of rancid uncured bacon include grayish color, sour smell, slimy texture, bitterness, and mold. Discard any bacon with these indications.
What happens if you leave uncured bacon out overnight?
Uncured bacon left at room temperature overnight should not be consumed due to increased risk of bacterial growth. Refrigerate bacon within 2 hours.
Get the Maximum Fridge Life from Your Uncured Bacon
Thanks to its smokey flavor and naturally cured ingredients, uncured bacon is a tasty alternative to traditional bacons. Storing uncured bacon properly and using within recommended time frames gives you the assurance that your bacon stays fresh.
So go enjoy that BLT, breakfast hash, or candied bacon knowing exactly how long your uncured bacon lasts! With the fridge life and freezing tips above, you can avoid spoiled bacon and keep enjoying it safely.
What is uncured bacon?
To understand this distinction between uncured bacon and regular bacon, let’s first establish what curing is. Pork belly that has been cured to keep it fresh and make it last longer is used to make bacon. Meat is cured by either soaking it in a mixture of salt, sugar, spices, and sodium nitrate or injecting it with it.
You might think that this means that uncured bacon is pork belly that hasn’t been cured, but it’s not! All bacon is cured; that’s what makes bacon bacon. How do companies say their bacon isn’t cured? It all comes down to the ingredients that are used to cure the bacon.
What is the difference between cured and uncured bacon?
As established above, cured bacon traditionally uses sodium nitrate or sodium nitrite. Uncured bacon still goes through the curing process, but it does not use either of these chemicals. Instead, producers use naturally occurring nitrates that are found in things like celery seed, beets, and other vegetables.
When you buy uncured bacon, the label will usually say, “Uncured bacon, no nitrates or nitrites added except those added naturally.” ” This is a requirement by the FDA. Nitrates are naturally found in the body and in many plants, but too much of them is bad for you. Furthermore, it is not very clear if the naturally occurring nitrates found in uncured bacon don’t have the same bad effects as the man-made ones. So, health claims about uncured bacon should be taken with a grain of salt (or sodium nitrate).