How Long Does Frozen Whole Raw Chicken Last?

CHICKEN, WHOLE — PURCHASED COMMERCIALLY FROZEN, RAW

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1 year (best quality)

 

Shelf Life Tips

  • How long does frozen whole raw chicken last? The precise answer to that question depends to a large extent on storage conditions - keep whole raw chicken frozen at all times.
  • How long does frozen whole raw chicken last in the freezer? Properly stored, frozen whole raw chicken will maintain best quality for about 12 months in the freezer, although it will usually remain safe to eat after that.
  • Is frozen whole raw chicken safe to eat after the expiration date on the package? Yes, if properly stored - commercially frozen whole raw chicken will typically carry a “Best By," "Best if Used By," “Best Before”, or "Best When Used By" date but this is not a safety date, it is the manufacturer's estimate of how long the frozen whole raw chicken will remain at peak quality.
  • How long will frozen whole raw chicken remain safe to eat? Frozen whole raw chicken that has been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely, as long as it has been stored properly and the package is not damaged.
  • How to tell if frozen whole raw chicken is no longer good? If dry spots or discoloration have developed on the frozen whole raw chicken, freezer burn has begun to set in - this will not make the whole raw chicken unsafe to eat, but it will harm the texture and taste.

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