How long does bacon last in the fridge?
Opened raw bacon lasts about 7 days in the fridge. Cooked bacon lasts 4–5 days. Unopened, it keeps until the use-by date, and it freezes for about 1 month.
Day by day in the fridge
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Storage times by type
| Type | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Raw bacon, opened | 7 days | 1 month |
| Raw bacon, unopened | Until use-by date | 1 month |
| Cooked bacon | 4–5 days | 1 month |
Signs it has gone bad
- Sour or rotten smell
- Slimy texture
- Pink meat turning grey, brown or green
No signs doesn't mean safe. Food-poisoning bacteria usually don't change smell or look, so go by time.
How to store it
- Wrap opened bacon tightly in plastic wrap or a zip bag to stop it drying out.
- Freeze bacon in small portions so you only thaw what you need.
- Cook until crisp; refrigerate leftover cooked bacon within 2 hours.
Check yours
Questions people ask
Is bacon good after the use-by date?
Unopened bacon can be fine for a few days past a sell-by date, but follow the use-by date. Once opened, use it within about 7 days.
How long does cooked bacon last?
Cooked bacon lasts 4–5 days in the fridge in a sealed container, or about 1 month in the freezer.
Why does my bacon look grey?
Exposure to air can dull the color. Grey bacon with a sour smell or slimy feel has spoiled; throw it out.
Sources
General food safety information, not medical advice. Times assume a fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below and a freezer at 0°F (-18°C). If you're pregnant, older, very young or immunocompromised, follow stricter limits.