The type of bacon, how it is stored, and whether it is cooked or raw all play a role. Though, if it’s still in the original box, you should probably only eat it up to two weeks after the date it was made.
Freezing cooked pork bacon or even bacon grease makes them last longer, which means you can use them for longer without runningcid or going bad.
If you decide to freeze your cooked bacon, it can last up to six months with no problems. Keep it for a little longer. You’ll have to smell it to see if it’s gone bad.
Crispy, smoky, salty bacon is a breakfast staple loved by many. But with its high fat content, bacon is prone to spoiling quickly without proper storage. This is where vacuum packing comes in handy! Vacuum sealing gives bacon a longer shelf life compared to traditional packaging methods.
But just how long does vacuum packed bacon last? What are the signs of spoiled bacon? How should you store it to maximize freshness? This article will answer all of these questions and more! Read on for a detailed guide to maximizing the shelf life of your vacuum packed bacon.
Overview of Vacuum Packed Bacon Shelf Life
When properly stored vacuum packed bacon can last
- Unopened: About 2 weeks refrigerated, 8 months frozen
- After opening: 1 week refrigerated
- Thawed after freezing: 3-4 days refrigerated
Vacuum sealing prevents oxygen exposure, slowing bacteria growth and oxidation that causes spoilage. Proper refrigeration temperature also helps extend shelf life.
For the longest shelf life, freeze unopened vacuum packed bacon for up to 8 months. Once opened use within 1 week. Follow usage times for thawed frozen bacon. Check for signs of spoilage.
Why Vacuum Packaging Extends Bacon’s Shelf Life
Vacuum packaging gives bacon a longer shelf life compared to traditional packaging methods. Here’s why it prevents early spoilage:
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Removes oxygen – Lack of oxygen slows bacteria growth and oxidation.
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Limits moisture loss – Vacuum sealing retains moisture and prevents freezer burn.
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Blocks light exposure – Light can accelerate fat oxidation and color/flavor changes.
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Provides airtight seal – Prevents outside contamination from microbes, insects, etc.
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Allows longer refrigerated storage – Unopened, lasts about 2 weeks refrigerated.
Vacuum sealing gives nearly twice the shelf life of bacon in permeable packaging. It better maintains both safety and quality.
Refrigerator Shelf Life of Vacuum Packed Bacon
To maximize refrigerator shelf life:
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Store unopened bacon before “use by” date – lasts about 2 weeks.
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Open package only when ready to use bacon.
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Use opened bacon within 1 week.
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Keep opened package tightly sealed.
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Store bacon on lower fridge shelves at 40°F or below.
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Monitor fridge temperature with thermometer.
Proper cold temperature and limiting oxygen exposure preserves freshness and slows bacteria growth after opening package.
Freezer Shelf Life of Vacuum Packed Bacon
For maximum freezer shelf life:
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Freeze unopened bacon up to 8 months before “use by” date.
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Double wrap or place in bag before freezing.
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Keep frozen at 0°F or below. Don’t let thaw during power outages.
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Thaw refrigerated overnight before use.
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Use thawed bacon within 3-4 days. Don’t refreeze.
Freezing stops bacteria growth and chemical changes from occurring. Maintain freezer temperature and limit thawing.
Detecting Spoiled Vacuum Packed Bacon
Check vacuum packed bacon for these signs of spoilage:
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Unpleasant sour, rancid or ammonia-like smell
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Grey, green or brown discoloration
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Dry, slimy or sticky texture
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White or colorful mold spots
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Weird bulging or shrinking of package
Bacon naturally has a red/pink color. Any other hue indicates spoilage. Off smells, textures, or appearances mean don’t eat it!
Proper Storage for Maximizing Shelf Life
To get the longest shelf life:
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Keep unopened in original packaging until use.
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Open package only when ready to use bacon.
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Wrap opened bacon tightly in plastic wrap or bags.
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Refrigerate opened bacon for 1 week max.
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Freeze unopened bacon up to 8 months.
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Store frozen at 0°F or below. Don’t thaw early.
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Thaw frozen bacon overnight in fridge before use.
Proper storage maximizes shelf life. Limit oxygen exposure after opening. Monitor temperatures. Follow recommended time limits.
Enjoying Bacon Before It Spoils
To enjoy fresh bacon before it goes bad:
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Review expiration or use by dates.
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Open only amount of bacon needed. Reseal rest.
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Cook bacon within 5 days of opening.
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Refrigerate cooked bacon 3-4 days.
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Freeze unused portions for longer storage.
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Use thawed bacon within 3-4 days.
Following first in first out method uses bacon when freshest. Freezing preserves extra bacon to use later.
With proper storage methods, you can enjoy delicious vacuum packed bacon safely for up to 8 months when frozen, 2 weeks refrigerated if unopened, or 1 week refrigerated after opening. Monitor for spoilage signs and follow usage times. Vacuum packaging gives bacon a longer shelf life, so you can keep this breakfast staple conveniently on hand.
How long does bacon last in the fridge?
In the refrigerator, cooked bacon usually lasts for about a week.
If you’re going to freeze raw bacon that’s still in its original vacuum-packed package, it should last at least six months and up to a year. This is the longest time period you can store bacon in any form.
You can only expect opened bacon to last about one to two weeks if you put it in the fridge. And make sure to put it in a container that won’t let air in when you put it in the fridge. If you don’t, it will dry out in a few days.
Uncovered bacon or grease can also be contaminated by other foods and pick up their flavors. If you’re going to freeze or refrigerate your bacon, it’s important to keep it in airtight containers or wrap.
How long does bacon grease last?
Bacon grease will last a little longer than actual bacon in any of the preserving ways. In fact, my grandmother used to have bacon grease on the stove that was jut always there. She used it to cook with almost everyday. But I never saw her refrigerate it. I wouldn’t recommend this, but it is a testament to how long bacon grease can last.
How long will food stay good vacuum sealed?
FAQ
How long will vacuum sealed bacon last in the fridge?
Can I use unopened bacon past use by date?
Is bacon still good after 2 years in the freezer?
How to tell when bacon has gone bad?
How long does vacuum-sealed Bacon last?
Trust your senses when it comes to bacon – they never fail! According to research, vacuum-sealed bacon sold in grocery stores can last until the expiration date printed on the package. However, in real-life experience, the flavor of vacuum-sealed bacon starts to deteriorate after about a week, even in the shrink-wrapped packaging.
How long does Bacon last in the fridge?
Generally speaking, if stored properly, vacuum-sealed bacon can last up to two months in the refrigerator, six months in the freezer, or even up to one year in the pantry. To ensure that your bacon stays fresh for as long as possible, it’s important to store it at the proper temperature and in an airtight container or bag.
How do you store vacuum packed Bacon?
The key to maximizing the shelf life of your vacuum packed bacon is proper storage. It should be stored in an airtight container or bag, and kept at the proper temperature in either the refrigerator or freezer. It’s important to check the expiration date and follow the storage instructions on the package to ensure safety.
Why should Bacon be vacuum packed?
When bacon is vacuum packed, it prevents the bacon from becoming stale and gives it a longer shelf life. Additionally, the absence of oxygen means the bacon is less likely to be contaminated by bacteria and mold, further extending its shelf life.