Bacon is a breakfast staple loved by many. The smell of sizzling bacon in the morning is enough to get anyone out of bed! While cooking raw bacon strips on the stove is always a delicious option, pre-cooked bacon offers convenience that can’t be beaten. Specifically, Kirkland’s pre-cooked bacon sold at Costco is a major hit. But how long does it actually last?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the shelf life and storage of Kirkland pre-cooked bacon.
An Overview of Kirkland Pre-Cooked Bacon
Kirkland’s pre-cooked bacon is a tasty product made by Hormel and sold exclusively at Costco warehouses. It comes pre-sliced in thick cuts and is hickory smoked to deliver robust, smoky bacon flavor.
The bacon slices are fully cooked so they can be heated and eaten right away without any prep work Kirkland pre-cooked bacon is sold in resealable packs containing 48-52 slices – much more than you’d get from a standard 1 pound pack of raw bacon
One of the major benefits of this pre-cooked bacon is its convenience. It can be used to quickly make sandwiches seasoned into salads chopped for toppings, or simply grabbed by the slice as a snack. The pre-cooked bacon also has a long shelf life compared to raw bacon.
How Long Does Unopened Kirkland Bacon Last?
An unopened pack of Kirkland pre-cooked bacon will last quite a while in your pantry. The best before date printed on the packaging is typically about 4 months from the purchase date.
As long as the bacon is properly stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, it should maintain best quality right up until the printed best before date. The thick plastic packaging prevents oxygen and moisture from degrading the bacon slices.
Don’t worry if you find an unopened pack in your pantry a bit past its best before date. Pre-cooked bacon has a long shelf life and the bacon will likely still be safe to eat for a short period beyond the date, especially if it was stored properly.
However, bacon quality does decline over time. Older packs may lose their signature smoky aroma and the bacon slices could dry out. For best flavor and texture, try to use Kirkland pre-cooked bacon before its best before date.
How Long Does Opened Kirkland Bacon Last?
Once opened, the clock starts ticking faster on your pack of Kirkland pre-cooked bacon. Exposure to air causes the bacon to stale quicker. For maximum freshness and quality, you should use up refrigerated pre-cooked bacon within 4-5 days of opening.
The fridge environment helps slow spoilage, but bacteria can still grow on cooked meats over time. Follow the basic leftover food safety rule – consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and food safety.
Properly stored, Kirkland pre-cooked bacon can potentially last up to 7 days in the fridge after opening. However, the bacon may start drying out by then and lose its signature texture.
If you don’t think you can finish the pack within a week, consider freezing the remaining bacon for long term storage.
Freezing and Thawing Kirkland Pre-Cooked Bacon
Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of pre-cooked bacon. Kirkland bacon holds up well in the freezer when properly packed.
To freeze bacon slices, arrange in a single layer on a sheet pan or plate. Freeze until solid, then transfer to resealable plastic freezer bags. Exclude as much air from the bags as possible.
You can also wrap small stacks of pre-cooked bacon in plastic wrap or foil before bagging. Just make sure to use air-tight freezer bags, containers or wrapping to prevent freezer burn.
Frozen Kirkland pre-cooked bacon will last for 2-3 months in the freezer before quality begins declining. For best results, defrost the bacon overnight in the fridge before using.
Microwaving frozen bacon may lead to uneven cooking, while thawing at room temp can allow bacterial growth. Fridge thawing keeps the bacon safe while bringing it to a ready-to-eat state.
Signs Your Bacon Has Spoiled
You reach into the fridge for some pre-cooked bacon but pause, unsure if its still fresh. Here are some signs that your Kirkland bacon has crossed over from tasty treat to unsafe food:
- Slimy texture with slippery film on slices
- Dull or faded color instead of rich reddish-pink
- Rancid or sour odor
- Mold growth (green or white fuzzy spots)
- Very dry, stiff bacon slices
Bacon exhibiting any of these traits should be discarded. Don’t take chances with cooked meat that seems off. A new pack of pre-cooked bacon is inexpensive for the convenience it provides.
What If Bacon Develops Small Spots of Mold?
It’s common for small dots of mold to develop on cured meats like salami or pre-cooked bacon. If your Kirkland bacon develops a few spots of surface mold, simply cut away the affected areas.
The remaining bacon is likely still safe to eat if it hasn’t exceeded the recommended 4-7 day fridge life after opening. But small spots of mold are a sign the bacon is nearing spoilage. Cook it soon and inspect carefully before eating.
Storing Pre-Cooked Bacon Properly
To get the most out of your Kirkland pre-cooked bacon, store it correctly:
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Unopened packs should be stored in a cool, dry pantry away from direct sunlight and other heat sources. Avoid temperature extremes.
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Once opened, immediately transfer unused bacon slices into a zip top freezer bag or airtight container. Limit air exposure.
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Keep opened bacon refrigerated at 40°F or below. Use within 4-7 days for best quality.
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Freeze bacon not used within a week for longer term storage.
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Defrost frozen pre-cooked bacon slowly in the refrigerator overnight before using.
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Avoid leaving pre-cooked bacon at room temperature more than 2 hours after cooking. Toss bacon left out too long.
Following these guidelines will provide you with delicious Kirkland bacon anytime you need a quick meaty flavor boost!
Frequently Asked Questions
Got pre-cooked bacon questions? Here are answers to some common queries:
How can I tell if bacon has gone bad?
Signs of spoiled pre-cooked bacon include an unpleasant odor, slimy texture, dulled or faded coloration, mold spots, and very dry or stiff slices. Discard bacon exhibiting any of these traits.
Why does my bacon smell bad but look normal?
Bacon can harbor bacteria like salmonella even when it appears normal. Don’t rely on looks alone. Foul odors indicate spoilage. When in doubt, throw it out.
Can I eat bacon that smells a little off but has been refrigerated?
No, it’s unsafe to eat cooked meats with an off or rancid smell, even if refrigerated. Toxins produced by bacteria build up over time and can still cause food poisoning.
Should I rinse bacon before using it?
Never rinse pre-cooked bacon, as this can spread bacteria. Kirkland pre-cooked bacon is ready to eat once heated.
How should I reheat Kirkland pre-cooked bacon?
You can reheat pre-cooked bacon slices in the microwave 10-20 seconds until hot and sizzling. For more flavor, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat 1-2 minutes per side.
Get the Most Out of Your Kirkland Pre-Cooked Bacon
Kirkland pre-cooked bacon is incredibly convenient. Follow the storage guidance in this article and you’ll be able to safely enjoy delicious bacon whenever a recipe calls for it.
Remember to consume opened packages within a week and freeze any extra for later use. With proper storage, you can make every pack of Kirkland bacon last and avoid any spoiled bacon mishaps!