Shelf Life Tips
- How long do raw pork chops last in the fridge or freezer? The exact answer to that question depends to a large extent on storage conditions - keep pork chops refrigerated at all times.
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How long do raw pork chops last after the sell-by date? After pork chops are purchased, they may be refrigerated for 3 to 5 days - the "sell-by" date on the package may expire during that storage period, but the pork chops will remain safe to use after the sell by date if they have been properly stored.
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Unopened raw pork chops may be kept in its original store packaging when refrigerating; to maximize the shelf life of pork chops, do not open the package until ready to use.
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How long can raw pork chops be left at room temperature? Bacteria grow rapidly at temperatures between 40 °F and 140 °F; pork chops should be discarded if left out for more than 2 hours at room temperature.
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To further extend the shelf life of raw pork chops, freeze; when freezing, place pork chops in the freezer before the number of days shown for refrigerator storage has elapsed.
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You can maximize the shelf life of pork chops in the freezer by overwrapping the original store packaging with airtight heavy-duty aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or freezer paper or place the package inside a heavy-duty freezer bag in order to prevent freezer burn.
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How long do raw pork chops last in the freezer? Properly stored, they will maintain best quality for about 4 to 6 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
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The freezer time shown is for best quality only - pork chops that have been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
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How long do raw pork chops last after being frozen and thawed? Pork chops that have been defrosted in the fridge can be kept for an additional 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator before cooking; pork chops that were thawed in the microwave or in cold water should be cooked immediately.
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How long do pork chops last in the fridge once they are cooked? Cooked pork chops will usually stay good for 3 to 4 days in the fridge and 4 months in the freezer.
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How to tell if raw pork chops are bad? The best way is to smell and look at the pork chops: signs of bad pork chops are a sour smell, dull color and slimy texture; discard any pork chops with an off smell or appearance.
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Sources: For details about data sources used for food storage information, please click here
