As a bacon lover, I frequently purchase Oscar Mayer bacon But I used to struggle to find the sell-by date printed on the pack. This date indicates how long the bacon stays fresh so I can enjoy delicious strips before they spoil.
In this article, I’ll share where to find the elusive sell-by date on various Oscar Mayer bacon packages. I’ll also explain what the sell-by date means, how to store bacon properly, signs of spoiled bacon, and frequently asked questions.
So read on for a full guide to understanding Oscar Mayer bacon’s sell-by dates!
Where to Find the Sell-by Date
The sell-by date on Oscar Mayer bacon is typically printed along the bottom or side of the packaging. Here are the specific locations for different types of packages:
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Vacuum-sealed plastic packs – The date is printed on the bottom right corner on the back.
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Cardboard boxes – The date is stamped on the end flap along the bottom.
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Zip-top plastic pouches – The date is printed on a small sticker along the back seal.
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Pre-cooked bacon packs – The date is printed on the upper right corner on the back.
So when purchasing Oscar Mayer bacon, be sure to turn the package around and check along the edges, flaps, and seals for the date stamp. It’s quite small and easy to miss if you don’t know where to look!
What the Sell-By Date Indicates
The Oscar Mayer bacon sell-by date tells retailers how long to display the bacon for sale. It can determine the bacon’s freshness:
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Unopened packs – Bacon lasts 5-7 days past the sell-by date if continuously refrigerated below 40°F.
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Opened packs – Consume within 5-7 days of opening, regardless of the sell-by date.
So the sell-by date is not an expiration date, but a general freshness guideline. Be sure to store bacon properly and inspect it before eating. Discard if it looks or smells spoiled.
Proper Bacon Storage
To maximize Oscar Mayer bacon’s shelf life, follow these storage tips:
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Refrigerate unopened bacon at 40°F or below by the sell-by date.
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Freeze unopened packs by the sell-by date for 4-6 months of storage. Thaw in the fridge before using.
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Store opened bacon tightly wrapped in the fridge and use within 5-7 days.
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Freeze leftover cooked bacon in airtight containers for 2-3 months.
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Keep bacon in the coldest part of the fridge, away from the door.
Proper refrigeration is key to keeping Oscar Mayer bacon fresh!
Signs Your Bacon Has Spoiled
Watch for these signs that your Oscar Mayer bacon has gone bad and needs to be discarded:
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Grayish or greenish tint to the meat
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Strong sour or unpleasant odor
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Soft, sticky, or slimy texture
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Dull or faded pink/red color
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Mold growth on cooked bacon
When in doubt, throw it out! Don’t risk eating spoiled bacon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about Oscar Mayer bacon sell-by dates:
Q: Can I eat the bacon after the sell-by date?
A: Yes, it should be safe if refrigerated continuously. But inspect it first and discard if it seems spoiled.
Q: How long after opening the package should I use the bacon?
A: Consume opened packages within 5-7 days. Bacon can spoil quickly once exposed to air.
Q: Can I freeze Oscar Mayer bacon to extend its shelf life?
A: Absolutely! Freeze unopened packs by the sell-by date for 4-6 months of storage.
Q: What if I don’t see a sell-by date printed on the package?
A: Check along the sides, bottom, seams, and flaps carefully. If you still can’t locate it, contact Oscar Mayer for guidance.
The Bottom Line
Finding the sell-by date on Oscar Mayer bacon just takes knowing where to look on the packaging. Follow the storage, freshness, and food safety tips provided to enjoy delicious bacon and avoid wasting packages that spoil.