The Definitive Guide to Pork Fat’s Fridge Life

Pork fat is a wonderfully versatile and flavorful cooking ingredient. From frying up crispy pork rinds to baking flakey pie crust, pork fat brings richness and texture to recipes. But like any animal-based fat, pork fat is perishable and knowing proper storage times is crucial.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into all the nitty-gritty details about pork fat’s fridge life Read on to learn how long you can keep different types of pork fat before use and storage tips to maximize freshness

An Overview of Pork Fat Types

First, let’s do a quick rundown of the main kinds of pork fat you’ll encounter:

• Fatback – This is the thick, hard fat that runs along the back of the pig under the loin Fatback is used to make lard or pork rinds.

• Leaf lard – Considered the highest quality lard, leaf lard comes from the fat surrounding the kidneys and loin It has a neutral flavor perfect for baking

• Lard – Lard is pork fat that has been rendered into a soft or semi-solid fat product. It’s used for frying and baking.

• Bacon grease – The rendered fat leftover from cooking bacon. Has a smoky pork flavor.

• Caul fat – A lacy membrane of fat that surrounds organs like the kidneys. Used to wrap and baste lean meats.

Now let’s look at how long each keeps in the fridge.

Fridge Life of Raw Fatback

Fatback is the thick layer of fat beneath the pig’s skin that runs along the back. This fresh pork fat has a more limited fridge life.

• Unopened fatback – 1 week
• Opened fatback – 3-5 days

Once opened, fatback should be tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or parchment paper before refrigerating. It’s very important to use raw fatback within 5 days for safety and quality.

How Long Does Rendered Lard Last?

Rendered pork lard has a much longer shelf life than fresh fatback.

• Lard in sealed container – 3-6 months
• Lard in freezer – Up to 3 years

The key is to store cooled lard in an airtight jar or container. Glass jars or metal tins work great. Always use clean utensils when removing lard to prevent contamination.

Bacon Grease Storage Times

Like lard, rendered bacon fat can also be saved for later use. Here is how long bacon grease keeps:

• Bacon grease in fridge – 1-3 months
• Bacon grease in freezer – 6-12 months

Let bacon grease cool completely before transferring to a container. Mason jars or grease keeper cans are ideal for storing. Be sure to strain out any food debris for longer shelf life.

Maximizing Fridge Life of Pork Fat

To get the longest safe shelf life from lard, bacon grease and other pork fats, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigerate or freeze as soon as possible after rendering fat.
• Use clean, airtight containers like glass jars.
• Never return used grease to container – it can spoil the rest.
• If saving bacon grease, strain out any meat bits or drippings.
• Keep away from sunlight and extreme temperature changes.
• Follow the “first in, first out” system when using pork fat.

Proper fridge temperatures below 40°F are also key. Use pork fat within recommended time frames.

Signs Pork Fat Has Spoiled

Rancid pork fat poses health risks, so it’s important to watch for signs of spoilage like:

• Change in texture – becomes more grainy or slick
• Foul odor – unappetizing fishy or rancid smell
• Change in color – darkening or unnatural hues
• Mold growth – discard immediately if you see mold
• Separation – fats and drippings separating in container

When in doubt, remember the old saying “When it smells bad, it is bad!” and discard rancid pork fat.

Tips for Using Leftover Pork Fats

Instead of wasting the remnants of lard or bacon grease, use it up!

• Use smaller amounts in place of oil for sautéing veggies, eggs, etc.

• Mix into dog food or bird seed for an added energy boost.

• Make candles by melting fat and pouring into jars with wicks.

• Preserve cast iron pans by rubbing with a thin layer after cleaning.

Smaller leftover amounts can go a long way. Get creative and avoid waste!

The Takeaway – Know Your Pork Fat Expiration

Understanding the different types of pork fat and properly storing them is key to maximizing shelf life. While raw fatback has the shortest fridge duration, rendered pork fats like lard and bacon grease stay fresh for months when refrigerated or frozen.

Follow the storage tips in this guide and pay close attention for any signs of spoilage. Trust your senses – if it smells or looks off, play it safe and discard. Knowing the facts about pork fat’s fridge life will give you confidence to always have this tasty cooking fat on hand.