Turkey bacon is lower in fat, lower in calories and has less sodium, so its a healthier alternative to regular bacon. If you dont eat it all in one meal, you may wonder how long turkey bacon lasts? This helpful guide will give you storage tips so you can enjoy the longest shelf life of your bacon.
My family loves all kinds of bacons. Were all familiar with regular pork bacon but fresh turkey bacon is the perfect option for those limiting calorie and fat intake.
Turkey bacon is usually made from the dark meat portions. Its seasoned to taste like traditional pork bacon and then shaped to into long strips much like regular bacon. Uncooked turkey bacon will have a subtle pink color but will look more like traditional bacon when cooked.
Uncured bacon is still treated with a salt solution but it is naturally derived and does not contain nitrates.
Turkey bacon has become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional pork bacon. With less fat and fewer calories, many find it to be a healthier choice. However, like any meat product, proper storage is key to keeping turkey bacon fresh and preventing spoilage
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about storing uncooked turkey bacon, from optimal storage conditions to freezing and thawing. Follow these tips for bacon that’s always fresh and ready to sizzle!
How to Keep Unopened Turkey Bacon Fresh
When you first bring home a package of turkey bacon from the grocery store, you want to take steps to maximize its shelf life Here are some tips
-
Check the sell-by date. This will give you an idea of how long the bacon will stay fresh in the unopened package.
-
Keep it sealed. An unopened package keeps oxygen out, extending freshness. Don’t open the packaging until you’re ready to use it.
-
Refrigerate promptly. Get the turkey bacon into the fridge as soon as you get home from the store. Cold temperatures slow bacteria growth.
-
Store on a lower fridge shelf. The bottom shelf is the coldest spot, ideal for meats.
-
Use within 2 weeks. For best quality, use unopened turkey bacon within 1-2 weeks of purchasing.
Following these guidelines will ensure your unopened turkey bacon stays as fresh as the day you bought it. But once opened, it requires a bit more effort…
Maximizing Freshness of Opened Turkey Bacon
Once you open the package, oxygen and moisture can penetrate the turkey bacon, causing it to spoil faster. Here are some storage tips:
-
Seal tightly. Place any leftover bacon in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. This prevents air exposure.
-
Use smaller containers. Dividing into smaller portions reduces air inside.
-
Push out air. Before sealing storage containers, press out as much air as possible.
-
Keep cold. Refrigerate opened turkey bacon at 40°F or below. Consistent cold temperatures greatly slow bacteria growth.
-
Use within 4-7 days. For maximum freshness and flavor, use opened turkey bacon within a week.
Following proper storage methods after opening can extend the shelf life for several additional days. But for even longer-term storage, consider the freezer.
Freezing Turkey Bacon for Extended Shelf Life
Freezing is a great way to significantly extend the shelf life of turkey bacon while maintaining quality. Here’s how to do it right:
-
Wrap tightly. Wrap bacon slices or stacks individually in plastic wrap or foil before freezing. This prevents freezer burn.
-
Portion properly. Divide bacon into portions you’ll realistically use at one time. This allows defrosting only what you need.
-
Exclude air. Squeeze out air and seal freezer bags tightly to prevent ice crystals.
-
Freeze fast. Get bacon in the freezer quickly so it freezes rapidly. Slow freezing causes damage.
-
Maintain temperature. Store frozen turkey bacon at 0°F or below. Consistent freezing preserves freshness.
-
Label. Mark freezer bags with contents and dates. This allows for easy identification and rotation.
-
Use within 2-3 months. For best quality and texture, use frozen turkey bacon within a few months.
Following proper freezing procedures allows you to safely store turkey bacon for extended periods while maintaining taste and texture.
Thawing Turkey Bacon
When you’re ready to eat that frozen turkey bacon, thaw it safely using these methods:
-
In the refrigerator. Place frozen bacon in the fridge overnight. No rushing this slow thaw!
-
In cold water. Submerge a vacuum sealed package in cold tap water, changing water every 30 minutes.
-
In the microwave. Use the “defrost” setting in short bursts, flipping occasionally. Watch carefully to avoid cooking.
-
On the counter. Only thaw for 1-2 hours maximum. Bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature.
-
Don’t refreeze. Thawing and refreezing causes texture changes. Cook thawed bacon immediately and use within a few days.
With the proper thawing technique, your frozen turkey bacon will be ready to cook and enjoy!
Tips for Safely Handling Turkey Bacon
To avoid illness, be sure to handle turkey bacon safely:
-
Wash hands and surfaces. Wash hands with soap before and after handling. Sanitize counters, cutting boards, utensils, etc.
-
Keep raw bacon separate. Store raw bacon away from ready-to-eat foods. Never place cooked foods back on same plate or surface.
-
Fully cook. Cook until sizzling hot and cooked through. Raw or undercooked bacon can harbor harmful bacteria.
-
Refrigerate leftovers. Cooked bacon can spoil quickly at room temp. Refrigerate within 2 hours.
-
Check for doneness. Meat should be sizzling hot with no pink color remaining. Use a food thermometer to check.
Following food safety guidelines helps protect you and your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions About Storing Turkey Bacon
- How long does uncooked turkey bacon last in the fridge?
In an unopened package, up to 2 weeks past the sell-by date. Once opened, only 4-7 days.
- What happens if I freeze turkey bacon after the expiration date?
Freezing stops bacteria growth but doesn’t kill what’s already present. Use or toss expired bacon. Don’t eat if smell or appearance seem off after thawing.
- Should I wrap turkey bacon before freezing?
Yes, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil. This prevents freezer burn which causes drying and textural changes.
- Can I store raw and cooked turkey bacon together in the fridge?
No, always store raw meats like turkey bacon separately from ready-to-eat foods to avoid cross-contamination.
- Is it safe to thaw turkey bacon at room temperature?
No. Room temperature allows rapid bacteria growth. Thaw in the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave only.
Storing Turkey Bacon Correctly Helps Maintain Freshness
Hopefully this guide has shed light on the best practices for maximizing the freshness and shelf life of your uncooked turkey bacon through proper storage methods.
The keys are keeping it well-sealed in the original packaging, refrigerating unopened packages promptly, using opened bacon within a week, freezing for extended storage, thawing safely, and handling with care to avoid illness.
Follow these tips and you’ll be all set to enjoy the crisp, savory goodness of turkey bacon anytime!
How long does cooked leftover turkey bacon keep in the fridge?
When properly stored, it cxan be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days. It is best to tightly wrap the bacon in foil or cling wrap or store it in an airtight containter.
To reheat, place it in a single layer on a paper towel on a microwave-safe plate and reheat in the microwave oven in 30 second increments until warmed through and crispy. It will continue to cook when reheating so make sure not to overcook.
For crispy turkey bacon, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat.
Turkey bacon can be used in all of your favorite recipes. I love to make bacon early in the week so I can add it to casseroles, soups, salads, or sandwiches such as BLTs.
How long does raw turkey bacon last in the fridge?
An unopened package can usually be kept for 7-14 days. Always check the sell-by date and purchase bacon that is not nearing its expiration date. The sooner you cook the bacon, the fresher it will taste. Turkey bacon typically has a quicker expiration date than regular bacon.
Once opened, turkey bacon can be stored in the fridge for 3-5 days. Like all raw meat, it will begin to break down quickly once the package has been opened. This also goes for unpackaged bacon that is bought at the meat counter of your grocery store.
Once you are home, how you store the packet of raw turkey bacon will affect how long it will keep. Place the unopened package into the fridge until ready to use. Any uncooked leftovers should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil or stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 5 days. Never store it at room temperature.