How Long Can You Keep Pork Sausage in the Fridge?

Pork sausage is a breakfast staple for many From savory patties to spicy links, this flavorful meat can add delight to any meal. But like any raw meat, pork sausage requires proper refrigeration for food safety and optimum freshness.

So how long does pork sausage last in the fridge? What’s the best way to store it? And how can you tell if it’s gone bad? This article provides comprehensive guidance on refrigerator shelf life for various types of pork sausage

Overview of Pork Sausage Types

There are a few main kinds of pork sausage

• Fresh, raw sausage – Sold in bulk or links/patties. Requires cooking before eating.

• Pre-cooked sausage – Ready to eat from the package. Includes smoked kielbasa.

• Hard, dry sausage – PigIeoni, chorizo, salami. Can be shelf-stable.

The fridge life depends on the type, as we’ll explore next.

How Long Does Raw Pork Sausage Last in the Fridge?

For raw pork breakfast sausage links or patties, the refrigerator shelf life is 1-2 days.

This short shelf life is due to the high fat content and potential for bacteria growth. Make sure to cook or freeze raw pork sausage within this timeframe.

How Long Does Pre-Cooked Pork Sausage Last in the Fridge?

Pre-cooked pork sausage that is fully cooked when purchased, like kielbasa, will last 3-4 days in the fridge.

The smoking and curing process makes pre-cooked sausage inherently safer. But it still requires refrigeration for optimum freshness and food safety.

How Long Does Hard Dry Sausage Last in the Fridge?

Hard sausage like salami, pepperoni, and chorizo can actually last several weeks in the fridge. Hard sausage is shelf-stable when kept in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it will last 3-6 weeks in the refrigerator.

The lower moisture content inhibits bacteria growth compared to other pork sausages. Keep the open package tightly wrapped in the fridge.

What is the Freezer Life of Pork Sausage?

Freezing pork sausage can extend the shelf life significantly. Here are the freezer guidelines:

• Raw pork sausage links/patties: 1-2 months
• Pre-cooked pork sausage: 1-2 months
• Hard, cured sausage: 2-3 months

Double wrap sausages in plastic wrap and freezer bags before freezing. Date packages and use oldest first.

How to Store Pork Sausage in the Fridge

To safely maximize pork sausage fridge life:

• Keep raw sausage on plates to contain meat juices and prevent cross-contamination.

• Wrap opened packages tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Excludes air and prevents drying out.

• Store opened hard sausage in new zip top bags with all air pressed out.

• Place sausage on lower shelves where fridge temp is coldest.

Proper refrigeration at 40°F or below preserves freshness and slows bacteria growth.

How to Tell if Pork Sausage is Bad

Check pork sausage for these signs of spoilage before eating:

• Slimy or sticky texture
• Greenish or grayish discoloration
• Strong sour odor
• Mold growth – discard immediately
• Expired use-by date

Sausage that exhibits any of these qualities should be thrown out. Don’t risk eating spoiled pork.

Safety Tips for Pork Sausage

To safely handle and consume pork sausage:

• Cook raw sausage to 160°F minimum internal temperature.

• Refrigerate opened packages within 2 hours after cooking.

• Discard sausage past recommended fridge times.

• Thaw frozen sausage in the fridge, not on the counter.

• When reheating, reheat fully until piping hot.

Following proper storage, cooking, and handling procedures reduces your risk of foodborne illnesses.

The Takeaway

Raw pork sausage links and patties keep 1-2 days in the fridge. Pre-cooked sausage lasts 3-4 days. And opened hard sausage keeps 3-6 weeks refrigerated.

For maximum safety and quality, store sausage properly, watch for signs of spoilage, and adhere to “use-by” dates. Freezing can significantly prolong the shelf life as well.

With the right storage and handling, pork sausage can be enjoyed safely and conveniently right from the fridge. Just remember to keep it cold!