Turkey bacon has become a popular alternative to traditional pork bacon due to its lower fat and calorie content. But there is some confusion around how long turkey bacon lasts once you open the package. This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the shelf life of opened turkey bacon and how to store it properly
Overview of Turkey Bacon’s Shelf Life
In general, unopened packages of turkey bacon will last 1-2 weeks past the sell by date if kept refrigerated at 40°F or below. Once opened, it will last 3-5 days in the fridge. For optimal freshness and food safety, turkey bacon is best consumed within these time frames.
However, there are many variables that affect how long turkey bacon lasts. These include how it is stored the temperature of your refrigerator and signs of spoilage. Read on for more details.
Storing Unopened Turkey Bacon
An unopened package of turkey bacon has the longest shelf life. To maximize freshness:
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Store turkey bacon on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator, as this is the coldest area. The back of the bottom shelf is ideal.
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Keep the original store packaging. It protects the bacon from exposure to air and light.
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Check the sell by date and use within 1-2 weeks after this date. The bacon may last a little beyond the sell by date, but quality declines over time.
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Monitor the temperature of your refrigerator. It should maintain 40°F or below. Use a refrigerator thermometer to check.
Following these tips will help unopened turkey bacon remain fresh for its maximum shelf life of 1-2 weeks past the sell by date.
How Long Does Opened Turkey Bacon Last?
Once you open the package, turkey bacon’s shelf life decreases. This is because exposure to air and handling increases the risk of spoilage. Here are some guidelines for opened turkey bacon:
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Use opened turkey bacon within 3-5 days. To maximize freshness, try to use it within 3 days.
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Make sure to tightly rewrap or seal any leftovers in plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or an airtight container. This prevents drying out.
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Store opened turkey bacon on a plate or sheet of paper towel on the bottom shelf of the fridge. Absorb any leaking juices.
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Cooked turkey bacon lasts 3-4 days in the fridge stored in an airtight container.
Following proper storage methods will help maximize the shelf life after opening. But it’s always important to rely on your senses too.
Signs Turkey Bacon Has Spoiled
There are clear signs that indicate spoiled turkey bacon. Be on the lookout for:
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Slimy texture or sticky film on the surface
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Grayish or greenish tint to the color
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Sour, unpleasant smell
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Mold growth (usually green, white, or black fuzz)
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Dry, shriveled up appearance
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to throw away the turkey bacon rather than risk foodborne illness. Don’t taste questionable turkey bacon to determine if it’s spoiled!
Storing Turkey Bacon in the Freezer
For long term storage, the freezer is your best bet. Turkey bacon that is continuously frozen at 0°F will last 4-6 months in the freezer. To freeze:
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Wrap freshly opened or cooked turkey bacon very tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn which causes drying and texture changes.
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Place wrapped turkey bacon in freezer bags, removing excess air. Freezer bags provide an additional layer of protection.
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Label bags with the date and contents. This prevents mystery packages down the road!
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Don’t refreeze thawed turkey bacon. Cook it within 1-2 days for food safety.
With proper freezer storage methods, turkey bacon can be frozen for up to 6 months while maintaining quality.
Thawing Frozen Turkey Bacon
To safely thaw frozen turkey bacon:
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Place it in the refrigerator 1-2 days before needed. Keep it in original airtight packaging. Thaw in a dish to catch drips.
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For quicker thawing, place sealed turkey bacon under cold running water. Change water every 30 mins until thawed.
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Thaw in the microwave using the “defrost” setting if in a rush. Cook immediately after thawing.
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Avoid thawing at room temperature. This allows bacteria to multiply.
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Cook thawed turkey bacon within 1-2 days for food safety. Don’t refreeze thawed raw turkey bacon.
Following these methods will safely thaw your frozen turkey bacon without compromising quality.
How to Know When Turkey Bacon Is Bad
Relying on sight, smell and touch will help you determine if turkey bacon has gone bad. Here’s what to look for:
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Appearance: Mold, slimy texture, or unnatural colors like green, gray, or blue indicate spoilage.
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Smell: An off, sour, or unpleasant odor is a definite warning sign.
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Texture: Turkey bacon should be moist but not slimy. A sticky or tacky feel is a red flag.
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Expiration: If turkey bacon is past the sell by date and not properly stored, it is at higher risk of spoilage.
When in doubt, remember it’s better to be safe than sorry! Discard turkey bacon that shows any odd characteristics rather than risk getting sick from consuming spoiled meat.
Tips for Cooking and Eating Turkey Bacon
To safely enjoy your turkey bacon:
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Cook it thoroughly until crispy to destroy any bacteria. Turkey bacon needs higher heat than pork.
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Let it rest 1-2 minutes after cooking. This allows juices to reabsorb for a flavorful bite.
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Keep cooked turkey bacon at safe temperatures, above 140°F or chilled below 40°F in the fridge.
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Don’t leave turkey bacon sitting out for over 2 hours. Toss leftovers if they’ve exceeded this time.
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When reheating, cook to 165°F. Microwave 30 seconds or use a 300°F oven 5-10 minutes.
Following these tips will help you safely cook your turkey bacon and enjoy leftovers.
Common Turkey Bacon FAQs
Got turkey bacon questions? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How can you tell if turkey bacon is bad? Rely on your senses. Look for mold, slime, unnatural color, rancid smell, or odd texture. When in doubt, throw it out.
Can you freeze unopened turkey bacon? Yes. An unopened package can be frozen for up to 1-2 months past the sell by date. This stops spoilage in its tracks.
Is it safe to eat turkey bacon a little pink? Yes, it can be safely eaten when the internal temperature reaches 165°F and is piping hot throughout. A touch of pink is normal with turkey bacon.
Can you microwave turkey bacon? Yes. Microwaving is a quick cooking method. Place slices between paper towels and cook for 2-3 minutes until crispy.
How long does cooked turkey bacon last in the fridge? Cooked turkey bacon lasts 3-4 days in the fridge stored in an airtight container. Toss leftovers after this time.
The Bottom Line
When stored properly, unopened turkey bacon has a shelf life of 1-2 weeks past the sell by date. Once opened, for best quality, use within 3-5 days. Freezing can significantly extend the shelf life up to 4-6 months. Rely on the sell by date, storage methods, and your senses to determine if your turkey bacon is still fresh. With an understanding of turkey bacon’s shelf life and signs of spoilage, you can enjoy this tasty bacon alternative while staying food safe.