How Long Does Peameal Bacon Last in the Fridge?

Peameal bacon, also known as Canadian bacon, is a type of cured pork that is popular in Canada. It gets its name from the process where ground peas or cornmeal is rolled into the moisture on the surface of the meat before being cured and smoked. This coating helps to preserve the bacon and also gives it a distinctive texture and flavour.

A lot of people wonder – once you’ve opened your pack of peameal bacon, how long does it actually last in the fridge before going bad? Here’s a comprehensive look at peameal bacon’s fridge life, proper storage methods, how to tell if it’s gone bad, and more

How Long Does Peameal Bacon Last Refrigerated?

An unopened pack of peameal bacon can be kept refrigerated for 1-2 weeks beyond the printed “best before” date on the package. Once opened peameal bacon will last for 7-10 days in the fridge.

Here are some general guidelines for peameal bacon fridge life:

• Unopened pack in fridge: 1-2 weeks
• Opened pack in fridge: 7-10 days
• Cooked peameal bacon in fridge: 3-4 days

The shelf life depends largely on how well it is stored – keeping it constantly refrigerated at 40°F or below and tightly wrapped to prevent moisture loss are the keys to maximizing freshness

How to Tell If Peameal Bacon Has Gone Bad

Here are some signs that your peameal bacon has spoiled and is no longer safe to eat:

• Slimy texture and unpleasant sour smell
• Dry, shriveled appearance with hardening around the edges
• Green or blue mold growing on the surface
• Unusual dark or grey discoloration
• Strong ammonia-like odor

Trust your senses – if your peameal bacon looks or smells bad, it’s better to be safe than sorry and throw it out. Rancid bacon can cause foodborne illnesses, so don’t take any risks.

Proper Storage of Peameal Bacon

Storing peameal bacon properly is key to preserving its freshness and shelf life:

• Keep it refrigerated at 40°F or below – this inhibits bacteria growth. The freezer works even better at 0°F.
• Seal tightly in a ziplock bag or airtight container – this prevents moisture loss and dehydration.
• Wrap in parchment paper inside the packaging – this absorbs excess moisture and oils.
• Store away from raw meats – this prevents cross-contamination.
• Pat dry with paper towels before storing – this removes surface moisture that could cause spoilage.

Freezing Peameal Bacon

Freezing is a great option for long term storage. Peameal bacon that is continuously frozen at 0°F can keep for 6-8 months in the freezer.

To freeze peameal bacon:

• Make sure it is very fresh, not expired. Freezing won’t make a poor quality product better.

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, foil or place in ziplock bags with all air pressed out. This prevents freezer burn.

• Use within 2-3 months for best flavor and texture. Freezer burn becomes more likely over time.

• Defrost overnight in the fridge before using. Don’t defrost at room temperature as bacteria could start growing.

Other Ways to Extend Fridge Life

• Use within 3-5 days of opening for peak freshness. The longer bacon is exposed to air, the faster it deteriorates.

• Purchase in smaller quantities if you don’t use much bacon regularly. An almost empty package will expire faster.

• Divide into portions in airtight bags when freezing. Thaw only what you need each time.

• Avoid introducing extra moisture – pat dry with paper towels before storing or freezing.

• Ensure your fridge temperature is accurately set to 40°F or below. A malfunctioning fridge can shorten shelf life.

Cooking and Eating Peameal Bacon Safely

Always follow proper food safety practices when handling and cooking peameal bacon:

• Cook thoroughly to 145°F internal temperature – this kills any bacteria present.

• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours – bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature.

• Reheat leftovers to 165°F until hot and steaming before eating again.

• Discard bacon that is starting to smell bad or look slimy, even if refrigerated. Don’t risk getting sick.

• When in doubt, remember the old adage – “If it smells funky, give it to the crows!”

The Bottom Line

With proper storage methods, freezing, and food safety practices, you can enjoy delicious peameal bacon safely while minimizing food waste. Trust your eyes, nose and common sense – if something seems “off”, it’s better to be cautious and toss it out rather than risk a foodborne illness.